Multi-player game and gaming system

ABSTRACT

A variety of methods of playing dice games and apparatus for implementing the games are disclosed. In one embodiment, at least two indicia are displayed, the indicia selected from a group of indicia including two indicia representing each side of a dice, the indicia representing each side of a dice having a distinguishing characteristic. In one embodiment, the group of indicia includes each side of a dice distinguishable by color. After display of the indicia, a player is permitted to hold none, one or more or all of the indicia. An indicia is then selected from the group of indica for each non-held indica. The resulting combination of indicia is then evaluated to determine if it comprises a predetermined winning combination of indicia. In one embodiment, a video machine is arranged to implement the game. Machine-readable media reading and writing devices allow players to save and restore games in progress. In one or more embodiments, two or more gaming devices are associated with a common controller. The controller dictates a time period by which a player must provide game play input to the gaming device in order to proceed with the game. The outcome of the game may be determined by comparison to the outcome(s) received by other players playing the game. In one embodiment the game comprises the display of a plurality of game indicia and a plurality of player indicia and includes the step of determining if any of the game indicia and player indicia match. A score is generated based upon matching symbols.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/684,759 filed Oct. 6, 2000, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. application Ser. No. 09/553,915 filed Apr. 20, 2000, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/439,934, filed onNov. 12,1999, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.No. 09/298,604 filed on Apr. 23, 1999, each of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to methods of playinggames, gaming devices and systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Traditional slot machine play typically involves wagering on thespin of a mechanical or video-simulated reel. No decision making isinvolved, other than the decision to play. No skill is involved wherethe outcome of such gaming is based upon chance.

[0004] The interconnection of multiple gaming machines to facilitate agaming system with progressive jackpots is in use today. Although suchwide area links involve progressive jackpots, they do not take fulladvantage of the potential created by the interconnection of a pluralityof gaming machines. Wide area links of gaming machines typically involvetraditional computer-controlled slot machines, which, although popular,do not involve a substantial skill element. Furthermore, traditionalslot machines facilitate a limited persistence of play. After any givenspin, a player is likely to leave the computer-controlled slot machine,because each spin is a completed cycle rather than part of an ongoinggame. A game in which each spin or turn is a part of an ongoing gamewould be advantageous because such a system would encourage a player tocontinue playing in order to complete a game in progress.

[0005] Additionally, traditional slot machine play is a solitaryactivity. Players compete only against the house, in an introvertedprocess in which they interact not with each other, but only with thegaming machines. With the advent of wide area links of gaming machines,a tremendous potential exists to facilitate multiple player tournaments,in which players would not only compete for the same progressivejackpots, but actually compete against each other in real time. Suchmultiple player gaming would be more socially interactive, and wouldfacilitate a fun gaming dynamic.

[0006] Also, traditional slot machines are not equipped to permit aplayer to take a break, and to later resume game play. If a playerphysically leaves an individual slot machine, that player may neverrevisit the specific game state which the player left behind. Becauseplayers like to take short and long term breaks for a variety ofreasons, a method to allow a player to save a game state and laterrestore the saved game would be advantageous. Players would like to beable to take breaks of any length and later resume a saved game at thesame or another physical location.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides apparatus and methods for playingvarious casino games. In one or more embodiments, the inventioncomprises a game in which the number of potential winning combinationsis reduced over time. As the number of potential winning combinations isreduced, the payout associated with each remaining combination winningcombination increases. In a number of the embodiments, a set of symbolsor indicia are provided. After placing a wager, a number of the symbolsfrom the set are displayed to a player. The player is permitted to holdone or more of the symbols and discard the others. Symbols from theremaining set of symbols are then displayed in replacement of thenon-held symbols. The final set of displayed symbols are compared topredetermined winning combinations to determine if the player is awinner. One or more of the symbols are then removed from the set ofsymbols before the next round of play.

[0008] In one embodiment, the combinations comprise combinationsachievable using the sides of dice (e.g., all dice showing the sameindicia or symbols, the dice showing a full house, straight or thelike). In one or more embodiments, the invention comprises a game inwhich the number of potential winning combinations is reduced as playpersists by removing payable indicia based on previous pay by theplayer. In a number of embodiments, such comprises removing from playface(s) of the dice, by removing the symbols therefrom, replacing themwith other symbols or the like.

[0009] One game in accordance with the present invention is designatedherein by the term Check. In the game of Check, a player spins (rolls)five simulated dice to obtain certain scoring combinations during eachturn. Each turn lasts from one to three spins. After the first spin, aplayer may end the turn or spin again. If a player spins again, theplayer may re-spin all of the dice, or hold any number of the dice andre-spin the others. After a maximum of three spins in this manner, theturn ends. Once a turn is over, the player must assign the result of thedice to one of a number of categories on a scorecard. If the result ofthe dice does not fit any of the categories, the player must assign azero to one of the categories. Over the course of multiple turns, theplayer attempts to fill out the multiple predefined categories on thescorecard. The game is over when the player has filled all of thepredefined categories and the resulting point values are accumulated.

[0010] The game of Check involves a substantial skill element. Duringthe course of a game, a player must make various decisions, for example,whether to assign an existing score to a category or to roll again,which dice to roll again and which dice to hold, and to which categoryto assign a score. The outcome of the game and the amount of a player'swinnings or losses are directly dependent upon the decisions the playermakes.

[0011] Another such game is denoted herein by the term Z Sixty Six. Inthe game of Z Sixty Six, a player spins (rolls) six simulated dice toobtain three, four, five, and six of a kind. A player must achieve aminimum of three of a kind in order to begin a game.

[0012] Each turn of a game lasts from one to three spins. During thefirst spin of a turn, a player spins all six dice, attempting to achievea resulting combination in which at least three of the dice are of thesame numerical value. After the first spin of a turn, the numberdisplayed by the largest plurality of the dice automatically becomes atarget number for the current turn. The dice displaying the targetnumber are automatically held, and if at least three dice displaying thetarget number have been generated, points are assigned to a score areaassociated with the target number.

[0013] After the first spin, the player re-spins the dice that were notheld, attempting to generate more dice displaying the target number.Where more dice displaying the target number are generated, apredetermined number of points is added to the appropriate scoringcategory, and the additional scoring dice are held. After a maximum ofthree spins total, the turn ends. Over the course of multiple turns, theplayer attempts to fill out the multiple predefined, scoring categories.The game is over when the player has filled all of the predefinedcategories.

[0014] Another such game is a game called Z Hot Dice. In accordance withthis game, a player is permitted to spin six simulated dice. It is thegoal of the player to achieve the maximum number of each of the sixsymbols one through six via two-spin or roll rounds. After a first spin,the player selects a target number. The target number is a numberdisplayed by one of the dice (or none, as the case may be) which has notalready been played. The player holds the dice displaying the targetnumber. The player then spins the non-held dice, resulting in a finalcombination of six dice. The total number of dice displaying the targetnumber is then determined. If the player receives a sufficiently highnumber of dice displaying the target number, the player is awarded awinning amount. The player is permitted to continue playing until eachtarget number has been played. After each target number has beendisplayed, that target number is removed from the simulated dice,reducing the total remaining numbers capable of being displayed.

[0015] The total award to the player for each target number is summedand compared against a qualifying score. The qualifying score comprisesa score above which the player would be entitled to participate in ajackpot if the jackpot were then awarded.

[0016] A variety of options and other forms of play of the game of Z HotDice are disclosed.

[0017] Another such game is called Z Jackpot Dice. In accordance withthis game, a player is permitted to spin five reels each capable ofdisplaying each of the six symbols of a dice, and three other symbols.In one embodiment, the other symbols comprise three letters in thecolors red, white and blue, with the letters being B, O, N, U and S.

[0018] In similar fashion to the game of Z Hot Dice, the player attemptsto receive predetermined combinations of target numbers, the targetnumbers selected from the dice symbols of one through six. A pay tableis provided for each winning combination of the target numbers. Inaddition, a bonus amount is associated with each target number.

[0019] In the course of play, the player spins the reels. If the playerobtains a combination of the letters (i.e. non-target symbols), then theplayer is awarded the bonus amount. If the letters are not of the samecolor, then the player is awarded the bonus for the bonus associatedwith the next as yet to be played target number. If the letters are ofthe same color, then the player is awarded the bonus for all of thetarget numbers. If the spin results in a combination of the lettersonly, then the player is permitted to thereafter spin again to play atarget number.

[0020] After the first spin (or the second spin, if the first resultedin a win based on letters only), then the player is permitted to selecta target number and hold the reels displaying the target number. Theplayer is then permitted to spin the non-held reels. Thereafter, it isdetermined if the player has received a winning combination of thetarget number. In one embodiment, the player must receive at least 3 ofthe target number to obtain a winning.

[0021] Winnings for each target number and any bonus winnings are addedand compared against a qualifying score for determining if the player ispresently permitted to participate in a jackpot award. The player ispermitted to continue playing until the player has played all of thetarget numbers. At the conclusion of the game (whether terminated by theplayer or by completion of all target numbers), the player is providedwith a ticket in the event the player's score is sufficiently high toqualify for jackpot participation.

[0022] In all games, the player inserts coins or utilizes another formof payment/credit to play the game. The player is paid a payoutdependent upon receiving predetermined combinations of elements orcategories, and the number of rolls needed to achieve the scoring dicecombinations. Bonuses may be paid for successfully completing thescorecard.

[0023] Furthermore, the games directly facilitate persistence of play.Each spin is part of an ongoing game. A player is encouraged to continueplaying to complete turns and games in order to maximize the resultingpoint values or scores accumulated on the scorecard.

[0024] Another game in accordance with the invention is referred toherein as Draw Dice. In accordance with an embodiment of this game, amethod of game play comprises the steps of placing a wager, displayingat least two indicia selected from a group of indicia, the group ofindicia including at least two indicia representing a side of a dice andthe at least two indicia representing a side of said dice having atleast one distinguishing attribute, holding none, one or more of thedisplayed indicia, displaying a replacement indicia from the group ofindicia for each displayed indicia which is not held, and determining ifthe resultant displayed indicia comprises predetermined winningcombination of indicia, and if so, paying the player a payout. In oneembodiment, the distinguishing attribute comprises a color, such as acolor of the dice. In one embodiment, the group of indicia includes eachside of a dice in each of three different colors, and whereby saidwinning combination may include a flush of indicia of the same color.

[0025] In one embodiment, there is provided a jackpot or winning for agame in which the jackpot is incremented by the full amount of a wagerplaced by the player to play the game. In one embodiment, the jackpot isawarded for receiving one particular winning combination of indicia froma group of winning combinations of indicia.

[0026] The computer-controlled slot machines may be interlinked onto alocal and wide-area network with other computer-controlled slotmachines. This facilitates multiple player tournaments in which playerscompete against each other in real time, in contrast to playing “againstthe house.” The wide area network also facilitates the payment ofprogressive or other special jackpots. The wide-area link may haveprogressive jackpots or flat-rate jackpots, and these prizes may be paiddaily, weekly, monthly, and/or yearly.

[0027] Player participation in the game over time may be enhanced byjackpot participation. A jackpot is preferably awarded at predeterminedintervals, such as every week. In one or more embodiments of a game, ifthe player has obtained a qualifying score, the player is automaticallypermitted to participate in the jackpot. In a preferred embodiment, theplayer's having the highest scores (such as the twenty highest scores)at the time the jackpot is awarded are permitted to participate. In thisarrangement, a player need not win a predetermined combination ofsymbols or the like to participate in the jackpot. All that is requiredis that, over the course of game play, the player receive a sufficientlyhigh score as compared to other players. How high of a score isnecessary to qualify changes during each jackpot interval.

[0028] The present invention also comprises a method by which a playermay save and restore games in progress. A player may save a game onto amagnetic card, bar coded voucher, or other machine-readable medium. Theplayer may later resume the saved game by inserting the machine-readablemedium into any similar computer-controlled slot machine, either at thesame location, or elsewhere on the wide area network. Thecomputer-controlled slot machine is then initialized to the conditionsand states determined by the saved game information from themachine-readable medium, and the player may resume the game from wherepreviously terminated.

[0029] One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method ofplaying a multi-player game and a system for presenting such a game. Inone embodiment, the invention comprises a method in which two or moreplayers play a game, the game having the possibility of a differentoutcome to each player, and the game having a plurality of steps, one ormore of which affect the outcome of the game to each player. In oneembodiment, the method includes the step of indicating informationregarding times by which each of the steps of the game must be completedby each of the players. If a player completes a game step within therequired time, then the player is allowed to continue playing the game.If not, the player is not permitted to continue playing the game. Oncethe steps of the game are completed by one or more of the players withinthe allotted times, the winner of the game is determined by comparingthe outcomes of completed games.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the multi-player game comprises agame of Z Hot Dice or other dice game of the invention. In such anarrangement, each player may be required to place a bet or ante within atime period or by a time certain in order to continue to play the game.If the bet is placed, then each completing player may be required tospin the dice within a given time, and then hold none, one or more ofthe dice in another time period, and so on. The player attempts to gainthe highest score possible from a combination of dice. The outcome ofthe game is determined by comparing the total scores of the players ofthe game.

[0031] One embodiment of the invention comprises a system for presentinga multi-player game. In one embodiment, the system includes at least twogaming devices for presenting the game to two or more players. Eachgaming device is associated with at least one controller which isadapted to provide control information, such as indicated timeinformation regarding when a particular step of the game must becompleted.

[0032] Another embodiment of the invention comprises a game calledZingo. In one embodiment of this game, at least one set of playersymbols or indica are provided. A set of game symbols or indicia arealso provided. These symbols may be displayed on a video display. Theset of game symbols is compared to the set of player symbols todetermine if there are any matching symbols. In one embodiment, threedifferent sets of the game symbols are provided, and each set of gamesymbols is compared to the same set of player symbols. In oneembodiment, a match is declared if a symbol from the set of game symbolsmatches a symbol from the set of player symbols in a correspondingposition or order. A score may be awarded or generated in the event of amatch. A player attempt to obtain a high score to achieve an award.

[0033] In one embodiment, the set of player symbols comprises aplurality of rows or lines of symbols. The game symbols are arranged ina row and are compared to the symbols in a row of the player symbols.This embodiment game is particular suited to play as a multi-playergame, where each player is provided with a set of player symbols andthen the game symbols are displayed to all players. Each player attemptsto match as many symbols as possible. One or more players achieving ahigh or the highest score may be awarded a reward.

[0034] In one embodiment, the symbols which are display comprise thesides of dice. The player symbols comprise a matrix of 36 sides of dice.The game symbols represent the sides of six rolled dice. The player isawarded points or a score comprising the total of the sides of thematched dice symbols. In one embodiment, a player is entitled to bonuspoints or a bonus score in the event the player matches a predeterminednumber of symbols during first or first and second rolls of the gamedice.

[0035] Further objects, features, and advantages of the presentinvention over the prior art will become apparent from the detaileddescription of the drawings which follows, when considered with theattached figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a computer-controlled slotmachine, in accordance with one embodiment of the gaming system of thepresent invention.

[0037]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of four computer-controlled slotmachines assembled in a bar table according to another embodiment of thepresent invention for single or simultaneous multiple user play.

[0038]FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a local area network ofcomputer-controlled slot machines, according to the present inventionfor progressive gaming activity.

[0039]FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a wide area network ofcomputer-controlled slot machines, according to the present inventionfor progressive gaming activity.

[0040]FIG. 5A is a diagram of a touch-sensitive display of acomputer-controlled slot machine, in accordance with one embodiment ofthe gaming system of the present invention.

[0041]FIG. 5B is a diagram of a touch-sensitive display of acomputer-controlled slot machine, in accordance with an alternativeembodiment of the gaming system of the present invention.

[0042]FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the microprocessor-controlledcomputer and the computer program which facilitate game play accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043]FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of game playaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044]FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of game playaccording to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0045]FIG. 9 is illustrates score categories comprising two distinctdisplay areas, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046]FIG. 10 illustrates a user-interface for an alternate game of thepresent invention;

[0047]FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of game play of thegame having the interface illustrated in FIG. 10;

[0048]FIG. 12 illustrates a user-interface for an alternate game of thepresent invention;

[0049]FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of game play of thegame having the interface illustrated in FIG. 12;

[0050]FIG. 14 illustrates a user-interface for an alternate game of thepresent invention;

[0051]FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of game play of thegame having the interface illustrated in FIG. 14;

[0052]FIG. 16 illustrates said user-interface of said game illustratedin FIG. 14 in a particular game condition; and

[0053]FIG. 17 illustrates a user-interface for an alternate game andmethod of playing a game in accordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] The invention comprises methods and apparatus for presenting andplaying a game. In the following description, numerous specific detailsare set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of thepresent invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in theart, that the present invention may be practiced without these specificdetails. In other instances, well-known features have not been describedin detail so as not to obscure the invention

[0055] In general, one aspect of the invention comprises a game whichpresents to a player the opportunity to obtain an increasing payout asplay continues. In one or more embodiments, the invention comprises agame in which the number of potential winning combinations is reducedover time. As the number of potential winning combinations is reduced,the payout associated with each remaining combination winningcombination increases. In a number of the embodiments, as describedbelow, the combinations comprise combinations achievable using the sidesof dice (e.g., all dice showing the same face, the dice showing a fullhouse, straight or the like). In one or more embodiments, the inventioncomprises a game in which the number of potential winning combinationsis reduced as play persists by removing payable indicia based onprevious pay by the player. In a number of embodiments described below,such comprises removing from play face(s) of the dice, by removing thesymbols therefrom, replacing them with other symbols or the like. Theseand other aspects of the invention will become apparent when consideringthe detailed description below.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one or moregames are presented for play on a computer-controlled slot machine, forexample as shown in FIG. 1. As described below, these games may includethe games of Check, Z Sixty Six, Z Hot Dice, Z Jackpot Dice, Draw Diceand Zingo. The computer-controlled slot machine 101 includes amicroprocessor-controlled computer 103 within a tamper proof andlockable cabinet 109 having a coin acceptor 111 for wagers and a billvalidator 113 for wagers, and preferably including a touch-sensitivedisplay 115 for player input and game display. In addition, thecomputer-controlled slot machine includes a sound speaker 117 for outputof digital sound and voice simulations, a tower light 119 (not shown) toindicate jackpots and other game statistics, and a meter 121 to displayprogressive jackpot information and other text. The computer 103controls release of coins to a coin hopper 123 for paying players, andcontrols a ticket printer 125 for generating vouchers. The computer 103also controls a machine-readable medium reading and writing device 129for saving and restoring games in progress.

[0057] An alternative embodiment of the computer-controlled slot machineis illustrated in FIG. 2. A “bar buddy” version of a computer-controlledslot machine 201 includes all of the features of the computer-controlledslot machine 101. Each “bar buddy” computer-controlled slot machine 201contains four such computer-controlled slot machines 101, assembledwithin a bar table 203. Each of the four touch-sensitive displays 115for player input and game display are mounted in the surface of the bartable 203. The bar buddy computer-controlled slot machine 201 enablesfrom one to four players to play games of the invention simultaneously,either against each other or against the house. The various modes ofgame play are detailed below.

[0058] Each computer-controlled slot machine 101 is preferably connectedto a local area computer network as illustrated in FIG. 3. The localarea computer network 301 is controlled by a microprocessor-controlledserver computer 303 which controls game play, records game statistics,accounts for vouchers and jackpots, and links the games together. Thelocal area computer network 301 also preferably includes a progressivemeter display 305 for showing progressive jackpot information, a flatrate award display 307 for showing flat rate jackpot information, and anadditional display 309 for showing the scores that presently qualify forjackpots on the local area network 301. In the preferred embodiment ofthe present invention, all of the computer-controlled slot machines 101are connected to the local area computer network 301 in conventionalmanner via private dedicated lines 311. In an alternative embodiment,some or all of the computer-controlled slot machines 101 positioned atremote locations are connected to the local area computer network 301via modems and public telephone lines operated in secure mode throughencryption/decryption techniques.

[0059] Each local area network 301 of computer-controlled slot machines101 maybe connected to a wide area computer network as illustrated inFIG. 4. The wide area computer network 401 includes local area computernetworks 301 at various physical locations. The wide area computernetwork 401 is controlled by a central-site computer 403 which operatesin 24-hour-a-day communication with all local area computer networks 301on the wide area computer network 401 for security, accounting, andverification of games and jackpots. If a local area computer network 301is connected to a wide area computer network 401, the progressive meterdisplay 305, the flat rate award display 307, and the additional display309 of that local area computer network 301 all display jackpot andother information pertaining to the entire wide area network 401. Forexample, the additional display 309 of a local area computer network 301which is connected to a wide area computer network 401 shows scores thatpresently qualify for jackpots on the wide area network 401. In thepreferred embodiment of the present invention, each local area computernetwork 301 is connected to the wide area computer network 401 inconventional secured cryptographic manner via private dedicated lines311. In an alternative embodiment, some or all of the local areacomputer networks 301 are connected to the wide area computer network401 in secured cryptographic manner via modems and public telephonelines.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, thecomputer-controlled slot machine 101 includes a touch-sensitive display115 for player input and game display. FIG. 5A illustrates the layout ofthe touch-sensitive display in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention for playing the game of Check. The touch-sensitivedisplay 115 allows the player to make input selections conveniently, anddisplays game information in various ways, depending upon game state.The upper left area of the display 115 displays a scorecard 501 whichincludes thirteen dual purpose score areas 503 pertaining to thethirteen possible scoring categories. These areas are utilized to accepta player's selection of a scoring category after achieving a scoringspin, and also to display the score achieved by a player in thatcategory, as detailed below with respect to game play.

[0061] The computer-controlled display scorecard 501 is divided into twoportions. The upper portion 505 of the scorecard 501 includes dualpurpose score areas 503 of the display for Ones (or Aces) 507, Twos (orDeuces) 509, Threes 511, Fours 513, Fives 515, and Sixes 517. If theplayer exceeds a pre-determined score threshold on the upper portion 505of the scorecard 501, the player is awarded a bonus score which isdisplayed in the bonus score display area 519 of the upper portion 505of the scorecard 501. The upper portion 505 of the scorecard 501 alsoincludes an upper portion score total display area 520 for displayingthe total of all of the scores achieved in the scoring categories of theupper portion 505 of the scorecard 501. A detailed explanation ofscoring is provided below with respect to game play.

[0062] The lower portion 521 of the display scorecard 501 includes dualpurpose score areas 503 for 3-of-a-Kind 523, 4-of-a-Kind 525, Full House527, a four-dice Straight 529, a five-dice Straight 531, the sum of allfive dice (or Chance) 533, and 5-of-a-Kind (or Check) 535. The lowerportion 521 of the scorecard 501 also includes a lower portion scoretotal display area 537 for displaying the total of all of the scoresachieved in the scoring categories of the lower portion 521 of thescorecard 501.

[0063] The display 115 includes a grand total score display area 539which displays a player's grand total score as the sum of the upperportion score total and the lower portion score total.

[0064] The bottom left area of the display 115 includes five simulateddice 541. The bottom left area of the display 115 includes five holdbuttons 543 immediately below the simulated dice 541. These hold buttons543 are touch-sensitive areas, and are for holding a specific simulateddice 541 on a series of spins (rolls) when the player is attempting toobtain a certain combination, as detailed below with respect to gameplay.

[0065] The middle left area of the display 115 includes a text messagebox 545 for informing players of games states, such as number of spinsremaining, winning combinations, game over, and for informing players ofthe amount of payouts.

[0066] The upper right area of the display 115 includes a message area547 showing the position of the current scorecard 501 in the daily,weekly, monthly, or yearly prize jackpot award among multiple playernetworks for the prevailing scores. Alternatively, the message area 547may show the top five scores on a multiple-player network that qualifyfor a jackpot, as well as the bottom five scores that so qualify, sothat the player can see scores required to achieve a jackpot, asdetailed below with respect to jackpots.

[0067] The bottom right area of the touch-sensitive display 115 includesa number of touch-sensitive areas which facilitate configuration andcontrol of the game of Check. Specifically, a touch-sensitive spinbutton 549 activates a spin (roll) of the simulated dice 541, atouch-sensitive reset button 551 resets the scorecard 501, and atouch-sensitive start game button 553 starts a game. A touch-sensitivewager button 555 allows a player to select the number of credits towager, a touch-sensitive game mode selection button 557 allows a playerto switch between game modes, and a touch-sensitive save-restore gamebutton 559 allows a player to save or restore a game in progress to orfrom a card or voucher of machine-readable medium. Of course, thevarious buttons or control inputs, for example 543, 549, 551, 553, 555and 557, described herein as touch-sensitive areas on the display, 115may also be provided as mechanical electrical input devices, as desired.

[0068]FIG. 5B illustrates the layout of the touch-sensitive 115 displayin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for playingthe game of Z Sixty Six. The touch-sensitive display 115 allows theplayer to make input selections conveniently, and displays gameinformation in various ways, depending upon game state. The upper leftarea of the display 115 displays a paytable 561 which indicatespredetermined amounts to be paid for achieving specific scoringcombinations. The paytable 561 is updated as the game progresses toreflect predetermined amounts to be paid for achieving scoringcombinations at different stages of game play.

[0069] Below the paytable 561 are six score areas 503 of the display115. There is a score area for Ones (or Aces) 507, for Twos (or Deuces)509, for Threes 511, for Fours 513, for Fives 515, and for Sixes 517.Scoring combinations are assigned to appropriate score areas 503. Adetailed explanation of scoring is provided below with respect to gameplay.

[0070] The bottom left area of the display 115 includes six simulateddice 541. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, the simulated dice are inthe form of a video simulated dice reels. Below the video simulated dice541 is a touch sensitive spin button 549 that activates a spin (roll) ofthe simulated dice 541. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5B, thespin button 549 is in the form of one spin bar common to all simulateddice 541 on the display 115.

[0071] The upper central area of the display 115 includes a text messagebox 545 for informing players of games states, such as number of spinsremaining, winning combinations, game over, and for informing players ofthe amount of payouts. The upper right area of the display 115 includesa message area 547 showing the top score on a multiple-player networkthat qualifies for a jackpot, as well as the bottom score that soqualifies, so that the player can see scores required to achieve ajackpot, as detailed below with respect to jackpots. Alternatively, themessage area 547 may show the position of the current score in thedaily, weekly, monthly, or yearly prize jackpot award among multipleplayer networks for the prevailing scores.

[0072] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5B, a text message box 545for informing players of payout amounts, and a text message box 545 forinforming players of the number of accumulated credits are located belowthe message area 547.

[0073] The bottom right area of the touch-sensitive display 115 includesa number of touch-sensitive areas which facilitate configuration andcontrol of the game of Z Sixty Six. A touch-sensitive reset button 551resets the game, and a touch-sensitive start game button 553 starts agame. A touch-sensitive game mode selection button 557 allows a playerto switch single and multiple-player game modes. A touch-sensitivesave-restore game button 559 allows a player to save or restore a gamein progress to or from a card or voucher of machine-readable medium. Atouch-sensitive collect button 563 allows a player to collectaccumulated winnings. In one embodiment, a touch-sensitive translatebutton 565 allows a player to select a language to be used for displayoutput. Of course, the various buttons or control inputs, for example551, 553, 557, and 559 described herein as touch-sensitive areas on thedisplay 115, may also be provided as mechanical electrical inputdevices, as desired.

[0074]FIG. 6 illustrates the computer system that facilities game play.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention for playing the gameof Check, game play is facilitated by a computer program 601 executingin the microprocessor-controlled computer 103 within thecomputer-controlled slot machine 101. In the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the computer program is stored on a read-only memoryintegrated circuit 603 that is operatively coupled to themicroprocessor-controlled computer 103 in the computer-controlled slotmachine 101. Of course, in alternative embodiments, the computer programmay be stored on various other storage media, such as semiconductormemory or optical or magnetic disk, or the like.

[0075] The computer program 601 executes from the random access memory605 of the microprocessor-controlled computer 103 in thecomputer-controlled slot machine 101, and includes code 607 and data 609to facilitate the play of the game of Check in accordance with the gamerules, as detailed below with respect to game play.

[0076] The computer program accepts user input from various user inputdevices 611 of the types previously described, including coin acceptor111, bill validator 113, the touch-sensitive display 115, and themachine-readable medium reading and writing device 129. Other inputdevices including mechanical button type switches and lever-arm switchactuators may be used in alternative embodiments as desired.

[0077] The computer program also controls computer operation of thevarious output devices 613 such as the display 115, the sound speaker117, a tower light 119, the meter 121, the coin hopper 123, the ticketprinter 125, and the machine-readable medium reading and writing device129.

[0078] Preferably, the computer program 601 also controls communicationwith the microprocessor-controlled server computer 303 which controlsthe local area computer network 301. The computer program 601 controlsthis communication via a network port 615 and network connectivitycircuitry 617 contained within the microprocessor-controlled computer103.

[0079] The computer program 601 utilizes a random number generator 619to produce random numbers that represent the results of the simulatedrolling of the simulated dice 541. The computer program 601 utilizesanimation circuitry 621 to produce the simulation of dice on the display115.

[0080]FIG. 7 is a flowchart, illustrating play of the game of Checkaccording to one embodiment of the present invention. The object of thegame is to ‘spin’ the simulated dice 541 for scoring combinations, andto get the highest total score accumulated within scoring categories ofpossible dice combinations. A player begins by inserting 701 one or morecoins into the coin acceptor 111, by inserting 701 one or more billsinto the bill validator 113, or by utilizing credits. The player thenpresses 703 the touch-sensitive start game button 553 to begin gameplay. The player then selects 705 the number of credits to wager on thespin of the simulated dice 541 by utilizing the touch-sensitive wagerbutton 555 which controls the selection of the number of credits to bewagered. The player next spins 707 the simulated dice 541 by pressingthe touch-sensitive spin button 549. The computer program 601 utilizesthe random number generator 619 to produce random numbers that representthe results of the simulated roll of the simulated dice 541.

[0081] On each turn, the player may spin 707 the simulated dice 541 upto three times in order to get the highest scoring combination for oneof thirteen scoring categories. The thirteen scoring categories areillustrated by the following Table 1: How the Dice Score Upper Portionof Scorecard One (or Aces) Total of dice showing One only Twos (orDeuces) Total of dice showing Two only Threes Total of dice showingThree only Fours Total of dice showing Four only Fives Total of diceshowing Five only Sixes Total of dice showing Six only Bottom Portion ofScorecard 3-of-a-Kind Total of all five dice 4-of-a-Kind Total of allfive dice Full House (3 of one number, 25 2 of another number Four-DiceStraight 30 Five-Dice Straight 40 5-of-a-Kind (or a Check) 50 Chance(any five dice) Total of all five dice

[0082] After each spin the player may assign 709 the value of thesimulated dice 541 to one of the possible scoring categories byutilizing the dual purpose score areas 503 of the touch-sensitivedisplay 115. If a player does so, the computer under program controlsenses the touched areas 503 and totals the value of the simulated dice541 and calculates and displays the resulting score in the dual purposescore area 503 on the touch-sensitive display 115. The total score ofthe upper portion 505 of the scorecard 501 is displayed on the upperportion score total display area 520 on the touch-sensitive display 115.If the total score of the upper portion 505 of the scorecard 501 is 63or higher, for example, then a bonus of 35 points, for example, is addedto the upper portion score. This bonus is displayed on the bonus scoredisplay area 519 on the display 115. The total score of the lowerportion 521 of the scorecard 501 is displayed on the lower portion scoretotal display area 537 on the display 115. The grand total score iscalculated by adding the upper portion and the lower portion scorestogether. The grand total score is displayed on the grand total scoredisplay area 539 on the display 115.

[0083] Each scoring category can only be scored or selected once duringa game. Once a category is used, it cannot be reused until the next gameeither when the game is over because the scorecard 501 is complete orthe player presses the touch-sensitive reset button 551. Pressing thetouch-sensitive reset button 551 clears the entire scorecard 501 inpreparation for the start of a new game.

[0084] Instead, if the player has not yet spun 707 three times duringthe present turn, the player may elect not to assign 709 the value ofthe simulated dice 541, but instead to spin 707 again. If the playerelects to spin 707 again, the player may hold 711 one or more of thesimulated dice 541 by pressing one or more of the associated holdbutton(s) 543. The player may also release 711 one or more of any heldsimulated dice 541 by again pressing the associated hold button(s) 543.The player may also elect not to hold or release 711 any of thesimulated dice 541. The player then selects 705 the number of credits towager on the spin of the simulated dice 541 by utilizing thetouch-sensitive wager button 555. The player next spins 707 thesimulated dice 541 by pressing the touch-sensitive spin button 549.

[0085] A turn is over after a player has spun 707 three times, or hasassigned 709 the value of the simulated dice 541 to one of the possiblescoring categories by utilizing the dual purpose score areas 503 of thetouch-sensitive display 115. After a player has spun 707 three times,the player must assign 709 the value of the simulated dice 541 to one ofthe possible scoring categories by utilizing the dual purpose scoreareas 503 of the touch-sensitive display 115. If the score cannot beplaced into one of the categories because it does not correspond orqualify, then the player must utilize the dual purpose score areas 503of the touch-sensitive display to assign 709 a zero to one of theremaining categories.

[0086] If the player has achieved a scoring combination and assigns 709it to one of the scoring categories, the player is paid 713 via the coinhopper 123. Alternatively, the player may elect to receive credits. Thecomputer program 601 calculates payment according to a paytable, whichis based upon points scored per turn, and the number of spins needed toachieve the points, as shown, for example, in the following Tables 2 and3: NUMBER OF COINS × 3 × 2 × 1 CATEGORY Spin 1 Spin 2 Spin 3 ONES TOTAL× 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL OF 1's TWOS TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL OF 2's THREESTOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL OF 3's FOURS TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL OF 4'sFIVES TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL OF 5's SIXES TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTALOF 6's 3 of a Kind TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL × 1 4 of a Kind TOTAL × 3TOTAL × 2 TOTAL × 1 Full House  75  50  25 Small Straight  90  60  30Large Straight 120  80  40 Chance TOTAL × 3 TOTAL × 2 TOTAL × 1 Check150 100  50 Check Bonus 1 300 250 100 Check Bonus 2 300 200 100 CheckBonus 3 300 200 100

[0087] SCORECARD BONUSES TOP HALF 63+ POINTS  +35 COINS ALL CATEGORIESFILLED +100 COINS SCORE 250-299 PTS.  +50 COINS SCORE 300-349 PTS. +100COINS SCORE 350-399 PTS. +150 COINS SCORE 400-449 PTS. +200 COINS SCORE450-499 PTS. +250 COINS SCORE 500-549 PTS. +300 COINS SCORE 550-599 PTS.+350 COINS SCORE 600-644 PTS. +400 COINS PERFECT SCORE +6000 COINS 

[0088] If the player assigns 709 a zero score to one of the categories,the player is not paid. Alternative embodiments may employ differentpaytables, as desired.

[0089] The player may then proceed with the next turn and continuefilling the scorecard 501. To proceed with the next turn, the playerutilizes the touch-sensitive wager button 555 to select 705 the numberof credits to be wagered on the spin of the simulated dice. The playernext spins 707 the simulated dice 541 by pressing the touch-sensitivespin button 549 and plays a turn, as described above. The game ends 715when the player has filled all thirteen categories with a score or azero or is out of credits to play the computer-controlled slot machine101.

[0090] Once the game has ended, the computer program 601 evaluates theplayer's scorecard 501 against other current scores to determine if aprogressive jackpot will be awarded on a daily, weekly, monthly, oryearly basis. If the player has a currently qualifying scorecard 501,the computer-controlled slot machine 101 prints 717 a voucher for theplayer with a control number and other pertinent information for laterredemption, if the scorecard 501 is a winner.

[0091] Utilizing a local area computer network 301 and a wide areacomputer network 401, multiple players may play the game of Checkagainst one another instead of “against the house.” Utilizing a localarea computer network 301, each participating player deposits money intoan individual computer-controlled slot machine 101 for each spin. Theplayer who achieves the highest scorecard 501 of all of the players whoare participating in that multiple player game on the local areacomputer network 301 wins the money deposited by the variousparticipating players (typically, minus a percentage for the house). Thesame methodology can be utilized across a wide area computer network401, allowing players at different physical locations to compete againsteach other in real time.

[0092]FIG. 8 is a flowchart, illustrating play of the game of Z SixtySix according to one embodiment of the present invention. The object ofthe game is to ‘spin’ the simulated dice 541 for scoring combinations,and to get the highest total score accumulated within scoring categoriesof possible dice combinations. A player begins by inserting 801 one ormore coins into the coin acceptor 111, by inserting 801 one or morebills into the bill validator 113, or by utilizing credits. The playerthen presses 803 the touch-sensitive start game button 553 to begin gameplay. In one embodiment, three credits are automatically wagered 805 oneach spin of the simulated dice 541. In another embodiment, the playerselects the number of credits to wager on the spin of the simulated dice541 by utilizing the touch-sensitive wager button 555 which controls theselection of the number of credits to be wagered. The player next spins807 the simulated dice 541 by pressing the touch-sensitive spin button549. The computer program 601 utilizes the random number generator 619to produce random numbers that represent the results of the simulatedroll of the simulated dice 541.

[0093] The player must achieve at least three of a kind on a single spinto begin play of an individual game. Until a spin generates at leastthree simulated dice 541 displaying identical numbers, the player mustcontinue spinning 807 to attempt to generate the minimum achievementrequired for game entry. A wager is required for each spin of thesimulated dice 541. Once a spin generates at least three simulated dice541 displaying identical numbers, those simulated dice 541 areautomatically held 811, and a predetermined number of points isautomatically assigned 813 to the appropriate scoring area 503. Thenumber of points awarded is displayed in the appropriate score area 503,which preferably changes color to indicate active status. The spin thatgenerated the requisite achievement is counted as the first spin of aturn, and the scoring number becomes a target number for the remainderof the turn. A target number is a number that the player can receivepoints for generating during a given turn.

[0094] For example, if a first spin results in four aces (ones), thepredetermined number of points for achieving four of a kind on the firstspin of a first turn is automatically assigned 813 to the —scoring area503 for aces 507. Aces becomes the target number for the remainder ofthe turn. Thus, on the subsequent spins of the turn, the player willreceive additional points only for generating aces.

[0095] The requirement of generating at least three of a kind appliesonly to the first turn. A player must achieve three of a kind to enterthe game and begin the first turn. Once a player has generated therequisite achievement and entered the game, subsequent turns do notrequire a minimum achievement to begin.

[0096] On each turn, the player may spin 807 the simulated dice 541 upto three times in order to get the highest scoring combination for oneof six scoring categories. The six scoring categories are illustrated bythe following Table 4: Score Category How the Dice Score One (or Aces)Dice showing One only Twos (or Deuces) Dice showing Two only Threes Diceshowing Three only Fours Dice showing Four only Fives Dice showing Fiveonly Sixes Dice showing Six only

[0097] After the first spin of a turn, the number displayed by thelargest plurality of the video simulated dice 541 automatically becomesthe target number for the current turn. The simulated dice 541 of thetarget number are automatically held 811, and the score area 503 for thetarget number preferably changes color to indicate that it is the activescore area 503 for the turn. If at least three dice 541 displaying thetarget number have been generated, a predetermined number of points isassigned 813 to the score area 503 for the target number.

[0098] If the first spin does not result in a largest plurality of dice541 displaying any one number, the player selects 809 a target numberfrom amongst those displayed by an equal number of the simulated dice541. For example, if the first spin results in two aces, two deuces, onefour and one five, the player may select 809 acres or deuces as thetarget number. The selection is made by touching the desired score area503 of the touch-sensitive display 115. Preferably, the score areas 503which the player may touch to choose a target number blink or changecolor or size or otherwise provide visual indication of the choicesavailable.

[0099] If the player has not yet spun 807 three times during the presentturn, the player may spin 807 again. The player next spins 807 thesimulated dice 541 by pressing the touch-sensitive spin button 549.During the second and third spins of a turn, any generated dice 541displaying the target number are held 811. Preselected numbers of pointsare assigned 813 to the appropriate scoring area 503 for scoring three,four, five, or six of the target number.

[0100] After each spin, if the player has achieved a scoringcombination, the player is paid 815 via the coin hopper 123.Alternatively, the player may elect to receive credits. The number ofpredetermined points awarded for various scoring achievements isdisplayed in a paytable 545 on the display 115. The paytable 545 isadjusted as the game progress, reflecting predetermined numbers ofpoints to be paid for various achievements at a particular stage of thegame. For example, more points are awarded for achieving a six of a kindon a first spin than on a third spin. Amounts to be paid are based uponthe odds of achieving various scoring combinations at a given stage ofgame play, taking into account number of unheld dice to be spun, andnumbers removed from possible generation. An example of paytable 545 fora first spin of a game appears below in TABLE 5 NUMBER OF POINTSACHIEVEMENT TO BE PAID THREE OF A KIND  3 FOUR OF A KIND 10 FIVE OF AKIND 50 SIX OF A KIND 500 

[0101] Alternative embodiments may employ different paytables 545, asdesired.

[0102] A turn ends 817 after a player has spun 807 three times, orachieved six of the target number prior to the third spin.

[0103] Each scoring category can only be scored or selected once duringa game. Once a category is used, it cannot be reused until the next gameeither when the game is over because a score has been assigned to eachcategory, or the player presses the touch-sensitive reset button 551.Pressing the touch-sensitive reset button 551 terminates the currentgame and starts a new game. Once a scoring category for a given numberhas been used, that number is replaced for the remainder of the game bya non-numerical symbol, for example the letter “Z” or a graphic symbolof a piece of fruit, or as desired. During subsequent turns, when therandom number generator 619 generates the used number, the non-numericalsymbol is displayed instead.

[0104] After completing a turn, the player may then proceed with thenext turn and continue filling the score areas 503. To proceed with thenext turn, the player next spins 707 the simulated dice 541 by pressingthe touch-sensitive spin button 549 and plays a turn, as describedabove.

[0105] The game ends 819 when the player has filled all six score areas503 with a score, or is out of credits to play the computer-controlledslot machine 101.

[0106]FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in whicheach score area 503 comprises two distinct display areas. A firstdisplay area 901 is utilized to display accumulation of points for theassociated scoring category. A second display area 903 identifies theassociated scoring category, for example by displaying an identificationvideo simulated dice 905 displaying the number of the scoring category.Additionally, the second display area 903 is used to indicate a currenttarget number for a turn, preferably by changing color to indicate thatthe number of the associated scoring category is the active targetnumber. Also, the second display area 903 is preferably utilized tochoose a target number from amongst those displayed by an equal numberof the simulated dice 541 when necessary. The player chooses a targetnumber by touching the second display areas 903 associated with thechosen target number. The second display area 903 which the player maytouch to choose a target number blink or change color or size orotherwise provide visual indication of the choices available.Additionally, once a scoring category for a given number has beenfilled, the indicator for the associated second display area is replacedfor the remainder of the game by a non-numerical symbol 907, for examplethe letter “Z” or a graphic symbol of a piece of fruit, or as desired.

[0107] In alternative embodiments, display of accumulated points,identification of score category, indication of current target number,indication of available choices of target number, and indication offilled categories (and in other embodiments more or fewer functions asdesire) are divided between at least two display areas, in variouscombinations as desired.

[0108] Once the game has ended, the computer program 601 evaluates theplayer's score against other current scores to determine if aprogressive jackpot will be awarded on a daily, weekly, monthly, oryearly basis. If the player has a currently qualifying score, thecomputer-controlled slot machine 101 prints 821 a voucher for the playerwith a control number and other pertinent information for laterredemption, if the score is a winner. In various embodiments, jackpotsare awarded for achieving high scores, for achieving high scores lowscores, or for achieving both high and low scores as desired.

[0109] Another embodiment of a game of the present invention will bedescribed with reference primarily to FIGS. 10-11. This game is referredto herein as the game of Z Hot Dice.

[0110]FIG. 10 illustrates a touch sensitive display 1015 forimplementing the game of Z Hot Dice. A scorecard 1001 area is providedin an upper left-hand corner. The scorecard 1001 displays informationregarding a particular event, the pay table for that event, prior playedevents, and win totals for each prior played event and the currentevent.

[0111] The scorecard 1001 includes six columns 1002, the number ofcolumns being the same as the number of sides of dice. During game play,as described below, a target number is associated with one of thecolumns 1002, the target numbers comprising one of the numbersassociated with a side of a dice (i.e. the numbers one through six). Ata top of each column 1002 is provided a target number indicator 1003. Inone embodiment, before a target number has been selected, this indicator1003 displays a “Z” or other symbol (or nothing). A central portion 1004of each column 1002 indicates the payout which will be awarded to aplayer for receiving a particular combination of the target number(s).

[0112] In the embodiment illustrated, the central portion 1004 isarranged to display payouts for receiving 3 of a Kind, 4 of a Kind, 5 ofa Kind or Six of a Kind of the target number. A win total 1005 isprovided at the bottom of each column 1002 for indicating the totalpayout or winnings to the player for a particular event. Those of skillin the art will appreciate that other winning combinations maybeprovided, such as a full house (i.e. three of the target number alongwith two of another number).

[0113] The display 1015 displays a number of simulated dice 1041, in asimilar manner to that described above. Below each simulated dice area1041 is a hold button 1043. Each button 1043 is associated with one ofthe simulated dice 1041 and, as described in more detail below, arrangedto permit a player to “hold” the a particular simulated dice 1041 in afixed position.

[0114] A number of other display areas are provided for displaying gameinformation. For example, a message area 1047 is provided for displayingthe amount of winnings in a jackpot pool. A grand total area 1039 isprovided for indicating to the player their total score for the wintotals 1005 of all columns 1002. In addition, a qualify score 1040 isdisplayed so that the player may determine if his or her grant total issufficiently high to qualify for a bonus or jackpot (as describedbelow).

[0115] A new game button 1051 is provided for permitting a player tobegin a new game. As described in more detail below, once a player hasplaced a wager, a text messages area 1045 displays winnings paid orother information for a player. The player may bet or wager credits insingle increments with a “Bet 1” button 1055, or may bet or wager amaximum allowed number of credits using a “Bet Max” button 1056. Acredits area 1046 displays the credits belonging to the player.

[0116] A spin button 1049 is provided for permitting a player toeffectuate a spin of the simulated dice 1041. A pause game button 1059is provided for permitting a player to pause a game in progress. Aplayer may elect to cash out by pressing a collect button 1063.

[0117] As described in more detail below, while in one arrangement theuser interface or screen comprises a touch screen arranged to displayinformation to a player and receive input therefrom, the user interfacemay comprise a combination of electrical and mechanical devices. Forexample, one or more of the buttons may comprise electromechanicalbuttons which may be depressed by a player. Those of skill in the artwill appreciate that many players like the “tactile” feel of buttons ascompared to touch screen input. Further, while the display areas arediscussed separately, they may be integrated or be arranged in a numberof ways other than as shown.

[0118] A method of play of the game of Z Hot Dice will be described withreference to FIG. 11. In a first step 1120, a player inserts a number ofcoins or provides other consideration for playing the game. Theconsideration may be dollar bills, credits from a player card or thelike.

[0119] In a step 1122, the player presses the new game button 1051 toinitiate anew game. In one or more embodiments, the gaming apparatus isconfigured such that if the player presses the new game at any timeduring the pendency of a game, the player is prompted to press the newgame button again if the player actually intends to start a new game.This serves to reduce the likelihood that the player may accidentally orunintentionally press the new game button 1051 and cause a new game tobegin. The prompt message may be illuminated in the text message box1045.

[0120] In a step 1124, the player places a wager or bet. In oneembodiment, this step comprises the player pressing the “Bet 1” button1055 or the “Bet Max” button 1056. In one embodiment, a player ispermitted to bet between one and five credits. Each credit may compriseany of a number of values, such as $0.05 U.S., $0.10 U.S., $0.25 U.S. orthe like. The player may utilize the “Bet 1” button 1055 to place wagersincrementally, or press the “Bet Max” button 1056 to place a maximumbet. The payouts displayed on the central portions 1004 of the columns1002 may be updated, as necessary, to reflect an increased payout forachieving a predetermined winning combination when the player increasesthe amount wagered.

[0121] In a step 1126 the player presses the spin button 1049. Upondepressing the spin button 1049, the simulated dice 1041 spin or move(such as in a motion simulating a “reel” displaying die faces), and thenstop, as described above to simulate the random roll of dice.

[0122] At this point, six simulated die 1041 are displayed to theplayer, each dice 1041 displaying one face, and thus one number, towardsthe player. In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10, the simulated die1041 display a five, a one, a six, a two, another two, and another five.

[0123] In a step 1128, the player is then permitted to “hold” the dicewhich that player wishes to play. The held dice identify a selectedtarget number, the target number being that number shown on the face ofthe held dice. For example, in the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10,the player may elect to hold the simulated die 1041 displaying fives. Insuch event, the player presses the right-most and left-most buttons1043, and the target number then comprises five.

[0124] In a step 1130, when the player makes a selection, the targetnumber is displayed in the first available column 1002 of the scorecard1001. In one embodiment, the first available column comprises theleft-most column 1002 which has not been utilized during the game.Preferably, the target number is illustrated by replacing the “Z” orother symbol in the indicator 1003 with a dice displaying the targetnumber. In the example given above, a dice displaying a five would bedisplayed in the left-most column 1002.

[0125] In one or more embodiments, a player is not permitted to selectas a target number a number which has already been played in aparticular game. If the player attempts to do so, a message may bedisplayed in the text message box 1045 to the effect that the selectednumber has already been played and the player must either select a newtarget number or spin again. Another spin may be required where thefirst spin does not result in the display of any available targetnumbers (as described below, after a target number has been played, itis preferably removed from the simulated die 1041 and will not bere-displayed). In addition, if the player selects more than one number(such as a simulated dice 1041 displaying a five and another displayinga two) the player be instructed that the action is not permitted and theplayer must select only one target number.

[0126] Preferably, when a number is selected, the particular column 1002is highlighted, such as in brightness or a different color, to aid theuser in identifying which information is pertinent to the present roundof the game.

[0127] In one or more embodiments, the particular payout is dependentupon the player's wager, with the payout increasing with an increasingwager. Set forth below are possible paytables for wagers of one, two,three, four and five coins or bet increments for each target number. Aswill be appreciated, the payout increases as the number of targetnumbers played increases (for reasons described below). Of course, avariety of payouts may be different than those illustrated.

[0128] For one 1 bet: First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth TargetTarget Target Target Target Target Number Number Number Number NumberNumber 3 of a Kind 1 2 3 4 5 6 4 of a kind 3 4 5 8 11 33 5 of a Kind 3040 50 80 110 330 6 of a Kind 300 400 500 800 1100 3300

[0129] For 2 coins bet: First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth TargetTarget Target Target Target Target Number Number Number Number NumberNumber 3 of a Kind 2 4 6 8 10 12 4 of a Kind 6 8 10 16 22 66 5 of a Kind60 80 100 160 220 660 6 of a Kind 600 800 1000 1600 2200 6600

[0130] For 3 coins bet: First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth TargetTarget Target Target Target Target Number Number Number Number NumberNumber 3 of a Kind 3 6 9 12 15 18 4 of a Kind 9 12 15 24 33 99 5 of aKind 90 120 150 240 330 990 6 of a Kind 900 1200 1500 2400 3300 9900

[0131] For 4 coins bet: First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth TargetTarget Target Target Target Target Number Number Number Number NumberNumber 3 of a Kind 4 8 12 16 20 24 4 of a Kind 12 16 20 32 44 132 5 of aKind 120 160 200 320 440 1320 6 of a Kind 1200 1600 2000 3200 4400 13200

[0132] For 5 coins bet: First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth TargetTarget Target Target Target Target Number Number Number Number NumberNumber 3 of a Kind 1 10 15 20 25 30 4 of a Kind 15 20 25 40 55 165 5 ofa Kind 150 200 250 400 550 1650 6 of a Kind 1500 2000 2500 4000 550016500

[0133] If after the first spin and hold, the player has a winningcombination of simulated dice 1041, then the win total is indicated inthe win total area 1005 of the scorecard 1001, and the text message box1045 may indicate the winnings. For example, in the event upon the firstspin of the game the spin results in four simulated dice 1041 showing afive, then the player may hold these four simulated dice for a “4 of aKind” of a target number of fives. The payout for this combination maythen be indicated in the win total area for the first column 1002, andthe text message box 1045 indicate the winnings to be paid.

[0134] In one embodiment, payouts for combinations of target numberswhich are eliminated may be removed from the scorecard 1001. Forexample, in the above-referenced example, the payout for a 3 of a Kindmay be removed from the first column 1002, since the player has alreadyreceived at least a 4 of a Kind. In addition, the payout which theplayer has already received upon the first spin for that target numbermay be highlighted to bring to the attention of the player that he orshe has already won. This highlighting may be by displaying the payoutin a distinguishing color or brightness or other means available. Theword “paid” may be indicated in the particular area of the scorecard1001 as well.

[0135] In accordance with the present invention, in a step 1132, afterholding one or more of the simulated dice 1041, or after an indicationthat no dice can be held, then the player presses the spin button 1049again. All of the simulated dice 1041 which were not held spin and thenstop, again displaying a number.

[0136] In a step 1134, the total number of simulated dice 1041displaying the target number after the second spin are then counted fordetermining whether a payout is to be awarded. A win total is displayedin the win total area 1005 of the particular column. This win total maybe 0, in the event the player did not receive a sufficiently high numberof simulated dice 1041 displaying the target number (for example, aplayer may elect to hold two dice showing the target number after thefirst spin and not receive any additional dice showing the target numberafter the second spin, thus not receiving a minimum three of the targetnumber for an award). The payout for that “round” may then be updated inthe text message box 1045.

[0137] In a step 1136, the win totals from all win total areas 1005 aresummed and displayed as a total score in the total score area 1039.Preferably, a qualifying score for a jackpot bonus is displayed in thequalifying score area 1040, again which the player may compare theirscore.

[0138] In a step 1138 it is determined if the player wishes to cash out.This is indicated by a player pressing the collect button 963. In suchevent, any accumulated winnings and credits are paid to the player. Inthat event, the game ends.

[0139] In a step 1140, it is determined if the player wishes to pausethe game. If the player wishes to pause the game, the player pushes thepause game button 1059. A process is then initiated by which the playermay leave the game and being play at a later time and even at differentgaming machine, as described in more detail below.

[0140] If the player wishes to continue the game, it is determined in astep 1142 if all of the columns 1002 of the scorecard 1001 are filled.If so, then the player has completed the game. In a step 1146, theplayer's total score is compared to the qualifying score to determine ifthe player qualifies for participation in the jackpot. If the playerqualifies, then in a step 1148, the player is provided with a voucher orthe like, in similar manner to that described above with respect to thegame of Z Sixty Six.

[0141] In a step 1144, after a particular target number has been playedin a round, that target number is replaced on each simulated dice 1041with another symbol or is removed. As described above, this may be asymbol, such as a “Z,” or a picture of a fruit or the like. In oneembodiment, it is preferred that the replacement symbols be different sothat at no time can a player receive a sequence of the same symbolsduring a spin. Such may be confusing to a player and lead a player intobelieving that they have spun into a winning combination. For example,the replacement symbols may comprise an X on the first simulated dice1041, an O on the second simulated dice 1041, an X on the thirdsimulated dice 1041 and so on, so that if a player spins and thesimulated dice stop on the replacement symbols, they display XOXOX. In apreferred embodiment, the side of the dice is effectively made blank orthe symbol removed from preventing its further display.

[0142] In another embodiment, the replacement symbols may actually bearranged so that a player may spin into a new bonus combination forwhich a payout is awarded. For example, each number or dice face may bereplaced with a $ symbol, such that during later play if the playerreceives a display of all of these symbols after a spin, the player isawarded a special prize or payout.

[0143] If all of the columns 1002 of the scorecard 1001 are not filled,the player may, repeating again to step 1124, place a bet or wager. Theplayer may be provided with an indication in the text message box 945after a given round that they may place a bet to continue with the game.

[0144] The game then continues as described above. It will beappreciated that after a first target number has been played, a spin ofthe simulated dice 1041 may result in a display of all of the remainingnumbers and/or the symbols used to replace the already played targetnumber. As the number of played numbers increases, the probability ofreceiving a target number decreases. For this reason, as detailed above,the payout for receiving a winning combination of each target numberincreases as the game progresses.

[0145] The player may continue playing until each of the target numbersone through six, have been played (in any order). At such time, thetotal score for the player is compared to the qualifying score todetermine if the player is entitled to participate in a jackpot oradditional play. Regardless of the outcome, the player must then begin anew game to continue play.

[0146] Another embodiment of a game of the present invention will bedescribed with reference primarily to FIGS. 12-13. This game is referredto herein as the game of Z Jackpot Dice.

[0147]FIG. 12 illustrates an interface 1215 for implementing the game ofZ Jackpot Dice. A scorecard 1201 area is provided in an upper left-handcorner. The scorecard 1201 displays information regarding a particularplay event, the pay table for that event, prior played events, and wintotals for each prior played event and the current event.

[0148] The scorecard 1201 is similar to that of the previous embodimentin many respects, and includes six columns 1202, one for each of the sixsides of a dice and the numbers associated therewith. At a top of eachcolumn 1202 is provided a target number indicator 1203. In oneembodiment, before a target number has been selected, this indicator1203 comprises a blank dice, A central portion 1204 of each column 1202indicates the payout for a particular combinations of the target numberand/or other numbers. As illustrated, the central portion 1204 isarranged to display payouts for receiving 3 of a Kind, 4 of a Kind, and5 of a Kind of the target number, as well as a full house, a full housecomprising three of the target number and a pair of another number.Preferably, the payouts for all combinations are illustrated in thecentral portion 1204, regardless of whether a particular column 1202 isactive (as described below). However, it is desired that the payoutinformation for the non-active column to be displayed less brightly orless visibly than the information provided in the active column. In thismanner, a player is provided with information regarding the possiblepayouts for receiving combinations in any particular column, but theplayer's attention is directed to the active column 1202 so as to avoidthe player being confused as to which column 1202 is being played.

[0149] A bonus value 1206 is provided in the column 1202. The bonusvalue 1206 comprises a payout value which the player may win in a mannerdescribed in more detail below. In a preferred embodiment, the bonusvalue 1206 comprises a sum which is related to the amount of wagersplaced by players when playing the game, such as a percentage of thewagers or retained winnings by the game provider/house.

[0150] A win total 1205 is provided at the bottom of each column 1202for indicating the total payout or winnings to the player for aparticular event.

[0151] The interface 1215 also includes a number of reels 1241. In thepreferred embodiment of this game, five reels 1241 are provided. In apreferred embodiment, each reel 1241 is capable of displaying one ofnine symbols: one symbol each comprising a side of a dice, and threesymbols comprising a letter in three different colors. Thus, each reel1241 is capable of displaying dice sides having a one, two, three, four,five and six thereon. The first reel is preferably arranged to displaythe letter “B” in the colors of red, white and blue. The second reel ispreferably arranged to display the letter “O” in the colors of red,white and blue. The third reel is preferably arranged to display theletter “N” in the colors of red, white and blue. The fourth reel ispreferably arranged to display the letter “U” in the colors of red,white and blue. The fifth reel is preferably arranged to display theletter “S” in the colors of red, white and blue.

[0152] It will be appreciated that the reels 1241 may comprise adisplayed image on a video display. In one or more other embodiments,the reels 1241 may comprise mechanical reels having one or more of theimages printed thereon and/or capable of being displayed thereon. Ingeneral, each reel 1241 is arranged to simulate a throw or spin of animaginary nine-side dice having sides displaying the above-describednumbers and symbols. Thus, as one aspect of the invention, dice orsimilar physical items are represented either graphically or on aphysical reel.

[0153] Below each reel 1241 is a hold button 1243. Each button 1243 isassociated with one of the reels 1241 and, as described in more detailbelow, arranged to permit a player to “hold” the position of aparticular reel 1241 in a fixed position.

[0154] A number display areas are provided for displaying related gameinformation. For example, a message area 1247 is provided for displayingthe amount of winnings in a jackpot pool. A grand total area 1239 isprovided for indicating to the player the total score of the win totals1205 of all columns 1202. In addition, a qualify score 1240 is displayedso that the player may determined if his or her grant total issufficiently high to qualify for a bonus or jackpot (as describedbelow).

[0155] A new game button 1251 is provided for permitting a player tobegin a new game. As described in more detail below, once a player hasplaced a wager, a text messages area 1245 may be used to displayinformation, such as game play information. The game play informationmay be accessible by pressing an information button 1270.

[0156] Display areas are provided for displaying winner paid information1271, bet information 1272, and credit information 1273. The player maybet or wager credits in single increments with a “Bet 1” button 1255, ormay bet or wager a maximum allowed number of credits using a “Bet Max”button 1256.

[0157] A spin button 1249 is provided for permitting a player toeffectuate a spin of the simulated dice 1241. A player may elect to cashout by pressing a cash out button 1263.

[0158] As illustrated, a coin acceptor 1213 and bill acceptor 1214 areprovided for accepting wagers by a player. A player card reader 1275 isprovided for reading a player card. The player card 1275 may containcredits which can be used to place bets, may contain player informationfor reading by the machine, and may store game information, such as aqualifying score, as described in more detail below. A ticket dispenser1276 is provided for dispensing tickets. As described in detail below,the ticket information may comprise game information, such anin-progress or completed game information.

[0159] A method of play of the game of Z Jackpot Dice will be describedwith reference to FIG. 13. In a first step 1320, a player inserts anumber of coins (as by coin acceptor 1213), bills (as by bill acceptor1214) or provides other consideration for playing the game.Consideration may also comprise credits from a player card or the like.

[0160] In a step 1322, the player places a wager or bet. In oneembodiment, this step comprises the player pressing the “Bet 1” button1255 or the “Bet Max” button 1256. In one embodiment, a player ispermitted to bet between one and five credits. Each credit may compriseany of a number of values, such as $0.05 U.S., $0.10 U.S., $0.25 U.S. orthe like. The player may utilize the “Bet 1” button 1255 to place wagersincrementally, or press the “Bet Max” button 1256 to place a maximumbet.

[0161] In a step 1324 the player presses the spin button 1249. Upondepressing the spin button 1049, the reels 1241 spin or move (either bymechanical rotation or by computer generated graphics) and then stop. Atthis point, one symbol is displayed in association with each reel 1241.In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 12, the symbols six, white O,blue N, one and red S are displayed.

[0162] In a step 1326, it is determined if the player placed the maximumbet. If so, then in step 1328 it is determined if the player hasreceived a specific combination of displayed symbols on the reels 1241.In one or more embodiments, a player is declared a winner if the playerreceives the symbols spelling BONUS. In one embodiment, if the playerreceives the symbols spelling BONUS in mixed colors, then the player isawarded the bonus amount in the display 1206 for the present column. Ifthe player receives the symbols spelling BONUS in the same colors (i.e.all red, white or blue) then the player is awarded the bonus amount inthe display 1206 for all columns 1202.

[0163] In one or more embodiments, a player is declared a winner if theplayer receives the same number on each of the reels 1241 (i.e. allones, twos), and that number has not already been played. In a preferredembodiment, when the player receives the same number on each of thereels 1241, then the player is awarded the payout for 5 of a Kind aswell as the bonus amount.

[0164] If the player is a winner, then in step 1329, the total of anywinnings is displayed in the total 1205 portion of the column beingplayed. In the preferred embodiment, the column being played is theleft-most column 1202 which has yet to be played. The totals of allcolumn 1202 totals are displayed in the total score area 1239.

[0165] As an example, if a player receives BONUS spelled in other thansymbols of a single color, then the player receives the bonus amount1206 for that column. That amount is then placed into the total portion1205 of that column and then indicated in the total score area 1239along with any other previous total amounts. If a player receives BONUSspelled in a single color, then the player receives the bonus amount1206 for each and every column. In such event, the totals 1205 for eachcolumn 1202 are updated to reflect this winning, as is the player'stotal score. If a player receives a 5 of a Kind of a new target number,then the player is awarded the payout for a 5 of a Kind and the bonusamount, and the first open column 1202 is highlighted and the targetnumber displayed thereabove.

[0166] In a step 1330, once the player has been declared a winner, it isdetermined if the player received a win by a 5 of a Kind or receivingthe BONUS symbols. If the player received a 5 of a Kind win, then instep 1332, it is determined if the player wishes to cash out (as via astep 1348 as described below). If the player won by receiving the BONUSsymbols, then the player is entitled to respin again in an attempt toobtain a combination of target numbers, as in step 1224. Of course, ifthe player again receives a win on the first spin, the process repeats.If the player received the same number on each of the reels, i.e. a 5 ofa Kind, then the play for that particular target number is completed andthe player moves to the next round. In one or more embodiments, theplayer may be required to place another bet in order to spin again afterhaving received a win by hitting the BONUS win.

[0167] If in step 1326 it is determined that the player did not place amaximum bet, then in step 1334 it is determined if the player received a5 of a Kind of a new target number. If so, then in step 1336, the playeris awarded the payout for that combination, and the award is displayedin the appropriate column. It is next determined if the player wishes tocash out in step 1348.

[0168] If in steps 1326 and 1334 it is determined that the player didnot receive a BONUS win or a 5 of a Kind, then instep 1338, the playeris permitted to “hold” any of the reels 1241 which display a number.When the player holds a particular number, that that number becomes thetarget number. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the player may wish tohold the six displayed in the first column 1202.

[0169] In a step 1240, when the player makes a hold selection, thetarget number is displayed in the first available column 1202 of thescorecard 1201. In one embodiment, the first available column comprisesthe left-most column 1202 which has not been utilized during the game.Preferably, the target number is illustrated by illustrating the targetnumber on the dice at the top of the column. In the example given above,a dice displaying a six would be displayed in the left-most column 1002.

[0170] In one or more embodiments, a player is not permitted to selectas a target number a number which has already been played in aparticular game. If the player attempts to do so, a message may bedisplayed in the text message box 1245 to the effect that the selectednumber has already been played and the player must either select a newtarget number or spin again. Another spin may be required where thefirst spin results in only numbers which have already been utilized. Inaddition, if the player selects more than one number (such as asimulated dice 1241 displaying a five and another displaying a two) theplayer be instructed that the action is not permitted and the playermust select only one target number. Also, a player is not permitted tohold any of the non-numeric symbols, such as B, O, N, U or S.

[0171] Preferably, when a number is selected, the particular column 1202is highlighted, such as in brightness or a different color, to aid theuser in identifying which information is pertinent to the present roundof the game. In addition, once a particular target number is selected,the payouts are highlighted in the central payout portion 1204 of thescorecard 1201.

[0172] In one or more embodiments, the particular payout is dependentupon the player's wager, with the payout increasing with an increasingwager. These payouts may be similar to those described and illustratedabove.

[0173] In one embodiment, payouts for combinations of target numberswhich are eliminated may be removed from the scorecard 1201. Forexample, the payout for a 3 of a Kind may be removed from the column1202 being played when the player has already received at least a 4 of aKind. In addition, the payout which the player has already received uponthe first spin for that target number may be highlighted to bring to theattention of the player that he or she has already won. Thishighlighting may be by displaying the payout in a distinguishing coloror brightness or other means available. The word “paid” may be indicatedin the particular area of the scorecard 1201 as well.

[0174] In accordance with the present invention, in a step 1342, afterholding one or more of the reels 1041, or after an indication that noreels 1241 can be held, then the player presses the spin button 1249again. All of the reels 1241 which were not held spin and then stop,again displaying a number.

[0175] In a step 1344, it is determined if the player has received anypredetermined winning combinations. If the player did not hold any ofthe reels 1241, it is possible that on the second spin the playerreceived the symbols spelling BONUS. Preferably, the player is awarded awin as described above for spelling BONUS, if the player has placed themaximum bet. In any event, if the player spells BONUS, that player isentitled to an extra spin in order to permit the player to receive themaximum number of the target numbers.

[0176] It is also determined if the player has received a combination ofthe target number which qualifies as a win. In the embodimentillustrated, the player is a winner if he or she receives at least threeof the target number, such as 3 of a Kind, 4 of a Kind or 5 of a Kind ofthe target number, or if the player receives a full house (i.e. 3 of aKind of the target number plus a pair of another number).

[0177] A win total is displayed in the win total area 1205 of theparticular column. This win total may be 0, in the event the player didnot receive a winning combination (for example, a player may elect tohold two dice showing the target number after the first spin and notreceive any additional dice showing the target number after the secondspin, thus not receiving a minimum three of the target number for anaward). The total payout to the player may be updated in the winner paiddisplay area 1271.

[0178] In a step 1346, the win totals from all win total areas 1205 aredisplayed, then summed and displayed as a total score in the total scorearea 1239. Preferably, a qualifying score for a jackpot bonus isdisplayed in the qualifying score area 1240, again which the player maycompare their score.

[0179] In a step 1348 it is determined if the player wishes to cash out.This is indicated by a player pressing the collect button 1263. In suchevent, any accumulated winnings and credits are paid to the player. Inthat event, the game ends.

[0180] If the player wishes to continue the game, it is determined in astep 1332 if all of the columns 1202 of the scorecard 1201 are filled(i.e. all of the target numbers have been played). If so, then theplayer has completed the game. In a step 1350, the player's total scoreis then compared to the qualifying score to determine if the playerqualifies for participation in the jackpot. If the player qualifies,then in a step 1248, the player is provided with a voucher or the like,in similar manner to that described above. This voucher may be dispensedby the jackpot ticket dispenser 1276.

[0181] If all of the columns 1202 of the scorecard 1201 are not filled,the player may, repeating again to step 1224, place a bet or wager. Theplayer may be provided with an indication in the text message box 1245after a given round that they may place a bet to continue with the game.

[0182] In a preferred embodiment, after a particular target number hasbeen played in a round, that target number is removed from each reel1241. Preferably, the space for the removed target number is made blank.In other embodiments, as described above, the symbol may be replaced.

[0183] Further, upon the beginning of the next round, the column 1202for the last target number is darkened or the like so that the player'sattention is directed to the now active column 1202. It is preferred,however, that any winning amounts to the player still be displayed inthe prior columns 1202 for identification by the player. In addition, itis preferred that the bonus amount for each played column be removed soas to not confuse the player. In such event, the bonus amount for eachpreviously played column is placed in a bonus pool for award to theplayer in the event the player receives a combination of the lettersBONUS in all of the same color.

[0184] The game then continues as described above. It will beappreciated that after a first target number has been played, a spin ofthe reels 1241 may result in a display of all of the remaining numbersand/or the symbols used to replace the already played target number. Asthe number of played numbers increases, the probability of receiving atarget number decreases. For this reason, as detailed above, the payoutfor receiving a winning combination of each target number increases asthe game progresses.

[0185] It will be appreciated that the particular symbols which areutilized in the game of Z Jackpot Dice may vary. For example, thenon-numeric symbols need not comprise the letters B, O, N, U and S, anddo not need to comprise one of each in three different colors. Forexample, the non-numeric symbols might comprise pictures of fruit orother items. Differing combinations of the non-numeric symbols may beachieved through color, size or other designation. In addition, agreater or lesser number of non-numeric symbols may be provided witheach reel. For example, there may be only two, or as many as four ormore of each of the letters, each in different colors.

[0186] It will also be appreciated that in one or more embodiments,player may be permitted to hold one of the non-numeric symbols, i.e. B,O, N, U, and/or S, in an attempt to gain a winning combination of suchsymbols on a second spin or play.

[0187] While a specific order of events has been described for the playof Z Jackpot Dice, the order of events and activities may be varied fromthat above. For example, the times at which columns are highlighted,played numbers are indicated at the top of the columns and the like mayvary from that described above. In this regard, the above-description issimply exemplary of an implementation of the concepts of the Z JackpotDice game.

[0188] Utilizing a local area computer network 301 and a wide areacomputer network 401, multiple players may play the game Z Sixty Six, ZHot Dice or Z Jackpot Dice against one another instead of “against thehouse.” Utilizing a local area computer network 301, each participatingplayer deposits money into an individual computer-controlled slotmachine 101 for each spin. The player who achieves the highest gamescore of all of the players who are participating in that multipleplayer game on the local area computer network 301 wins the moneydeposited by the various participating players (typically, minus apercentage for the house). The same methodology can be utilized across awide area computer network 401, allowing players at different physicallocations to compete against each other in real time.

[0189] As described above, in any of the games of the invention,including Check, Z Sixty Six, Z Hot Dice and Z Jackpot Dice, a playermay attempt to obtain a high total score for qualifying for a jackpot.In one or more embodiments, the jackpot comprises a percentage of themonies wagered by the players of the game(s). In this manner, thejackpot continues to increase over time with play, and over time, maycomprise multi-million dollars in size. The jackpot may comprise moniesbelonging to the establishment offering the game, and may comprise otherthan cash prizes.

[0190] In one or more embodiments, jackpot prizes are awarded at variousintervals. The interval may be daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, or thelike. The intervals may vary or be evenly spaced.

[0191] In a preferred embodiment, jackpot prizes are awarded to one ormore players who have achieved a high score playing the game. In oneembodiment, a set number of players, such as twenty, who have achievedthe highest scores playing the game during a jackpot interval mayparticipate in the jackpot. For example, the jackpot may be awarded onthe 1^(st) of each month, with the players who have achieved the twentyhighest scores during the previous month participating in the jackpot.Of course, a gaming establishment may determine the total number ofparticipants.

[0192] The participation by the players in the jackpot may be even (i.e.divide the jackpot by the number of participating players) or may be ona sliding or other scale where the higher the player's ranking, thegreater that player's participation in the jackpot. The jackpot may alsobe a fixed amount for each player, or be fixed based on their ranking.

[0193] Of course, the manner by which a player is determined to beentitled to participate in the jackpot may vary. For example, playershaving the lowest scores may be entitled to participate.

[0194] Those of skill in the art will appreciate the enticement of sucha jackpot award system to a player. In this arrangement, a player neednot receive any specific predetermined winning combination or pointtotal. Instead, a player need only achieve a sufficiently high score tobe included in the jackpot award. The high score is not fixed, but isdependent upon the scores of other players. Thus, during any particularjackpot interval, the score which a player needs to achieve toparticipate in the jackpot may vary.

[0195] A player may track whether or not they are in the running to winthe jackpot during a given payout interval. The player may compare theirscore(s) against the minimum qualifying score at any time to determineif they are still entitled to participate in the jackpot. A player maydetermine that their score is no longer high enough to qualify forjackpot participation (such as by reason of a number of later playersreceiving higher scores and displacing the player from the top twentyhighest scores). In such event, a player may play one or more gamesbefore the award of the next jackpot in an attempt to re-qualify.

[0196] In one or more embodiments, the jackpot qualifying scores may bepublished, such as on the Internet, permitting a player to convenientlytrack their participation. In addition, the list of winners of aparticular jackpot may be published. The winners may be listed bywinning number, which number is printed on the player's voucher. Theplayer may then redeem the voucher for their jackpot award at a gamingestablishment or other location.

[0197] Alternatively, achieving a predetermined score may be utilizedfor awarding a predetermined jackpot. For instance, if a player achievesa perfect score, meaning the theoretically highest score for eachcategory, then a jackpot may be awarded for such achievement.

[0198] In one or more embodiments of the invention, a number ofdifferent jackpot prizes may be provided, the prizes associated withdifferent intervals. For example, a first jackpot prize may beassociated with a weekly interval, and another jackpot prize associatedwith a monthly interval. In one embodiment, jackpot prizes associatedwith longer intervals may be larger than those which are associated withshorter intervals.

[0199] In this embodiment, a player may be permitted to select whichjackpot prize they wish to play for. For example, a player may begin agame and be permitted to select the desired jackpot to play for. Aplayer may select the “weekly” jackpot. The player's game result is thenused in determining whether the player is entitled to the weekly jackpotat the time the jackpot is awarded. In such an embodiment, the player'sgame result or score is not associated with participation in otherjackpots, such as the monthly jackpot.

[0200] In another embodiment, a player may be permitted to attempt towin more than one jackpot. For example, for an additional bet, a playermay be permitted to participate in one additional jackpot. For yetanother additional bet, a player may be permitted to participate inanother additional jackpot. By way of example, upon a player placing twoadditional bets, a player may attempt to win both the weekly and monthlyjackpot using the score or result of their game.

[0201] In another embodiment, a jackpot or prize may be awarded for gameoutcomes (such as highest score) of a group or number of games. Forexample, a jackpot or prize may be awarded to the player receiving thehighest score while playing a game of a group or set of 100 gamesplayed. In one embodiment, each gaming machine may be arranged toprovide such a jackpot or prize for each set or group of games played.

[0202] It will be appreciated that the predetermined winningcombinations and their payouts may vary from those described andillustrated herein. For example, instead of attempting to achieve a fiveof a kind of a given number, a player may be directed to achieve a fullhouse, a straight or other combinations. In one or more embodiments,especially when bonuses or jackpots are not awarded, winningcombinations may include the more commonly obtained 2 pair or even asingle pair. It will be appreciated that when a portion of the wager isdiverted to the generation of bonus and jackpot payouts, paying on suchcommonly occurring combinations is less desirable, as the hold for thegame may be minimal or non-existent to the house.

[0203] In one or more embodiments of a game in accordance with theinvention, bonus points or awards may be provided when a player receivesparticular indicia combinations. In one embodiment, a player may beawarded a bonus, such as bonus points, for completing a particularscoring category on a first spin or roll of the dice. For example, inthe event the player receives five “4's” on first roll of the dice, thusfilling the category for “4's” then the player may be awarded bonuspoints in addition to the points awarded for the total of “4's.”Referring to FIG. 5(a), the player may be awarded 20 points for the five“4's” plus a bonus of 300 points for completing the “4's” category onthe first spin.

[0204] In one embodiment, a bonus or bonus points may be awarded forreceiving a combination or completing a category on other than the firstspin or roll. For example, a first bonus may be awarded for receiving acombination or completing a category on the first roll, a second bonusfor doing so on the second roll, and a third bonus for doing so on thethird roll. If upon the third roll the player did not complete thecategory, then no bonus may be awarded. For example, if after the thirdroll the player received only three “4's,” the player may be awardedonly the 12 points for the “4's.” In one embodiment, the bonusassociated with receiving a combination or completing a category maydecrease for each additional spin necessary.

[0205] In addition, the total number of reels or simulated dice may bevaried. In the examples illustrated, 5 or 6 of such simulated dice orreels are illustrated and described. However, the games may be playedwith a lesser number or greater number (i.e. such combination as 7 of aKind being obtainable, or a maximum of 4 of a Kind). Those of skill inthe art will appreciate that as the total number of availablecombinations changes, the payouts may need to be changed in order toboth entice a player into playing and yet prevent the house from riskingloss.

[0206] In the above-described games, a player may preferably save a gamein progress by pressing the touch-sensitive save-restore game button559/pause game button 1059. The computer program 601 then utilizes themachine-readable medium reading and writing device 129 to write thepresent scores and game states to a card, voucher (such as a printedticket or token) or other medium which the player can take with them.The player may later resume the saved game by inserting such card orvoucher of machine-readable medium into the reading and writing device129 of any computer-controlled slot machine 101. The saved gameinformation is then read from the card or voucher to initialize theconditions and states of the computer-controlled slot machine 101. Invarious embodiments, a magnetic or optical or semiconductor medium maybe used as desired to store and transfer scores and game states andother pertinent data on such card or voucher produced by the video slotmachine 101. In one or more embodiments, when the player elects to pauseor save a game in progress, game state information is generated. Thisinformation may be stored to the medium which is provided to the player,or may be stored remotely, such as at a central server associated withthe games when they are linked. In such event, a code or otherinformation need only be stored or associated with the medium providedto the player. When the code is read or inputted into a game at a latertime, the code may cause the game to access the game state informationstored separately from the medium. In this manner, a player may bepermitted to cease playing a game at a first time and pickup that samegame at a later time, and even at a different gaming station offeringthe game. It will be appreciated that such a similar function may beapplied to the game of Z Jackpot Dice or even games other than thosedescribed herein, such as those games now known or later invented.Further, it should be noted that the games may be arranged so that aplayer may engage the pause function, as well as the cash-out and otherfeatures of the games, at times other than those specifically describedabove. For example, a player may be permitted to pause a game at anypoint, and not specifically only after the completion of a given roundof play.

[0207] Another embodiment of a game of the present invention will bedescribed with reference primarily to FIGS. 14-16. This game is referredto herein as the game of Draw Dice.

[0208]FIG. 14 illustrates a touch sensitive display 1415 forimplementing the game of Draw Dice. A payout table 1401 is provided inan upper left-hand corner. The payout table 1401 displays informationregarding a particular winning combination and the payout for thecombination.

[0209] The payout table 1401 includes six columns 1402. In a firstcolumn are listed a variety of particular combinations of indicia whichmay be obtained by play of the game described in more detail below. At atop of the remaining columns 1402 is a bet indicator 1403. Below eachbet indicator 1403 is a payout amount which indicates the payout whichwill be awarded to a player for receiving a particular winningcombination.

[0210] In the embodiment illustrated, the payout table 1401 displayspayouts for receiving two pairs of 4's, 5's or 6's, 2 pair, 3 of a Kind,a Straight, a Flush, a Full House, a 4 of a Kind, a 5 of a Kind, a RoyalFlush or a Perfect Royal. The significance of these combinations will bedescribed below. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that otherwinning combinations may be provided, dependent upon the type of gamewhich is implemented.

[0211] The display 1415 displays a plurality of indicia. In a preferredembodiment, the indicia include a number of simulated dice 1441 (or atleast one face or side of a dice), in a similar manner to that describedabove. Below each simulated dice area 1441 is a hold button 1443. Eachbutton 1443 is associated with one of the simulated dice 1441 and, asdescribed in more detail below, arranged to permit a player to “hold”the a particular simulated dice 1441 in a fixed position.

[0212] A number of other display areas are provided for displaying gameinformation. For example, a jackpot bonus value 1039 is displayed

[0213] In order to play the game, the player is preferably required toplace a wager, such as by providing coins, dollar bills or other credit.The player may bet or wager credits in single increments with a “Bet 1”button 1455, or may bet or wager a maximum allowed number of creditsusing a “Bet Max” button 1456. A credits area 1446 displays the creditsbelonging to the player. A coins bet area 1447 is provided fordisplaying the number of coins bet by a player on a given game.

[0214] A wide variety of other features may be provided. For example, abet cancel button 1448 may be provided to permit a player to canceltheir bet. Winnings may be displayed in a winner paid area 1449. A spinbutton 1451 is provided for permitting a player to effectuate a spin ofthe simulated dice 1441.

[0215] As described in more detail below, while in one arrangement theuser interface or screen comprises a touch screen arranged to displayinformation to a player and receive input therefrom, the user interfacemay comprise a combination of electrical and mechanical devices. Forexample, one or more of the buttons may comprise electromechanicalbuttons which may be depressed by a player. Those of skill in the artwill appreciate that many players like the “tactile” feel of buttons ascompared to touch screen input. Further, while the display areas arediscussed separately, they may be integrated or be arranged in a numberof ways other than as shown.

[0216] As described herein, a wide variety of combinations of indiciamay be used to comprise the simulated dice 1441 or other indicia used inthe game. In the preferred embodiment of Draw Dice, there are five reels1442 or simulated reels. Each reel 1442 is capable of displaying symbolsor indicia comprising or representing each of the six sides of a dice1441. In a more preferred embodiment, each reel 1442 is capable ofdisplaying each of the six sides of a dice in each of a plurality ofcolors or otherwise including distinguishing attributes orcharacteristics. In one embodiment, each reel 1442 is capable ofdisplaying each of the six sides of a dice in each of three colors, suchas red, white and blue.

[0217] In one embodiment, play of the game results in each reel 1442displaying one indicia as part of a resulting combination of a spin orevent. In one embodiment, a spin may result in a reel 1442 displaying ablank or non-dice indicia which comprises part of the results of a spin.The reel 1442 may also display indicia representing a side of a dice. Asillustrated in FIG. 16, while at most only one side of a dice or otherindicia (such as a blank space) comprises the result of a spin forpurposes of determining if a winning combination has been received,other indicia may be displayed and be viewed by a player.

[0218] In the preferred embodiment, the ability of the reels 1442 todisplay each dice side in three different colors or with otherdistinguishing attributes creates the opportunity for unique winningcombinations, as detailed in part above with respect to the payout table1401. In one embodiment, a winning combination may comprise a pair of5's, whether of the same or different colors. The opportunity for aflush exists, the flush comprising a combination of dice of the samecolor, regardless of value (i.e. regardless of which sides of the diceare shown). A royal flush comprises any combination of five simulateddice 1441 comprising each of the values 1-5 or 2-6, in any color. Forexample, a royal flush may comprise the dice combination 5 blue, 3 red,1 white, 2 blue and 4 red. A perfect royal comprises any in sequencecombination of simulated dice 1441 all of the same color. This requiresthat the simulated dice be displayed in forward or reverse order1-2-3-4-5, 5-4-3-2-1, 2-3-4-5-6 or 6-5-4-3-2. Because each reel 1442 iscapable of displaying the sides of the dice in three colors, there are3×4, or 12, ways to achieve the perfect royal flush. In addition, as aresult of the fact that five simulated dice may be displayed incombination, the opportunity exits for a 5 of a Kind comprising fivesimulated dice showing the same side or value. It will now beappreciated that by providing indicia comprising the sides of dice, andmultiples of each side of dice having distinguishing attributes, and byproviding several reels, a wide variety of unique combinations ofindicia are provided which may comprise winning combinations. Further,because of the number of variable parameters, the payouts for winningcombinations may be particularly selected. For example, a gamingmanufacturer or establishment may wish to provide a particularpercentage return on wagers placed, and may wish to pay winnings forcombinations which are frequently received. In both cases, such can beachieved using the many variable parameters associated with the indiciaand reels.

[0219] It will be appreciated that the number of duplicates of each sideof a dice may vary, such as by having each reel 1442 capable ofdisplaying two or four or more of each side of a dice. In such event,two colors or four or more colors may be used to distinguish theduplicates of the sides of the dice. As stated above, otherdistinguishing attributes may be provided, such as card suits, secondaryvalues and the like. In one embodiment, there may be multiples of eachside of a dice each having the same attribute. For example, each reel1442 may select an indicia for display from a group which includesmultiples of the same side of a dice in the same color. It will beappreciated that such combinations are useful in changing the odds ofreceiving a particular combination. As used herein, the term “selection”for purposes of determining which indicia is to be displayed is notlimited to the stoppage of a reel 1442 having the indicia displayed, butmay be simply as a result of a computer generation or selection (such asrandomly or randomly with odds factors) of the indicia, and then thedisplay of that indicia or the stoppage of the reel at a pointdisplaying that indicia.

[0220] In one embodiment, upon a second spin or display of indicia, eachreel 1442 is capable of redisplaying the same indicia (e.g. the group ofindicia from which the indicia is selected upon the second spin is thesame as upon the first spin). In another embodiment, once an indicia hasbeen displayed by a reel 1442, upon a second spin it can not bere-displayed.

[0221] In one or more embodiments, the reels 1442 may be capable ofdisplaying a wide variety of indicia other than the dice indicia 1441.As stated above, these indicia may comprise blank spaces or othernon-dice indicia. In such event, the winning combinations may be varied.For example, the reels 1442 may be capable of displaying a colored spot,wherein that colored spot may be used to form a flush, but not astraight (since it has no associated value).

[0222] The present invention is not limited to the display of the diceside indicia by video means. The indicia may be displayed in a varietyof manners, such as on a mechanical reel, by hologram or the like.

[0223] A method of play of the game of Draw Dice will be described withreference to FIG. 15. In a first step 1520, a player inserts a number ofcoins or provides other consideration for playing the game, such asdollar bills. Consideration may also comprise credits from a player cardor the like.

[0224] In a step 1522, the player places a wager or bet. In oneembodiment, this step comprises the player pressing the “Bet 1” button1455 or the “Bet Max” button 1456. In one embodiment, a player ispermitted to bet between one and five credits. Each credit may compriseany of a number of values, such as $0.05 U.S., $0.10 U.S., $0.25 U.S. orthe like. The player may utilize the “Bet 1” button 1455 to place wagersincrementally, or press the “Bet Max” button 1456 to place a maximumbet.

[0225] In a step 1524 the player presses the spin button 1449. Upondepressing the spin button 1549, the reels 1442 spin or move (either bymechanical rotation or by computer generated graphics) and then stop. Atthis point, one symbol is displayed in association with each reel 1441.As described above, the symbol may comprise a “blank.”

[0226] In a step 1526, the player elects to hold one or more of thereels 1442 and associated displayed dice or other indicia. In oneembodiment, the player may elect to hold none, one or more or all of thereels 1442.

[0227] In a step 1528, the player spins the non-held reels 1442 a secondtime. This step may be initiated by the player depressing the spinbutton 1451. In this embodiment, each of the non-held reels 1442 isspun. In the event all of the reels 1442 have been held, then none ofthe reels spin.

[0228] In a step 1530, the outcome of the game after the second spin isanalyzed in order to determine if a winning combination was received. Ifa winning combination was received, then winnings are awarded to theplayer in accordance with the payout table 1401, as per step S1532. If awinning combination was not received, then the game ends.

[0229] As illustrated, in the event the player placed the maximum betand received a Perfect Royal combination, then the player is awarded abonus amount. In a preferred embodiment, each time a player places abet, the entire value of the bet is credited to the bonus or jackpotamount which may be won. In one embodiment, the bonus amount isinitially credited with a base amount greater than the payout for thehighest hand (i.e. Perfect Royal in this case) with the next smaller bet(i.e. 4 coins in this case). Thereafter, all additional bet monies arecredited to the base amount, generating a total bonus or jackpot amount.In the event the player receives this predetermined winning hand withthe maximum bet, the player is awarded the total bonus amount. It willbe appreciated that this concept of generating a bonus or jackpot amountwhich increments by the fully value of the bet or wager may be appliedto a wide variety of games.

[0230] In one embodiment of the invention, when a player holds aparticular reel 1442, the display of that reel or indicia changes sothat only the held indicia is displayed. This effect is illustrated inFIG. 16, where the player has elected to hold the fifth reel. Asillustrated, when this occurs, the display of the reel 1442 changes sothat only the held value is displayed. This visually indicates to theplayer that the reel 1442 has been held, and makes it easier for theplayer to see the resulting combination of indicia for determiningwhether a winning combination has been received.

[0231] In one embodiment of the invention, a multiplier (notillustrated) may be displayed. The multiplier may cause one or moreamounts won by a player to be increased. For example, a multiplier valuemay be indicated on the display 1415. The value may comprise 2, 3, 4 orother values, including greater values, lesser values, and even 0. Inthe event a player obtains a particular predetermined combination, thevalue from the payout table 1401 for that win maybe multiplied orincreased by the multiplier value and then the new winning amount paidto the player. It will be appreciated that the multiplier value may be avalue which is actually multiplied against the winning, or may comprisea value which is added to the base winning. In one embodiment, themultiplier value may be randomly selected from a plurality of value andthen displayed, or may increase with time, or be selected in accordancewith a variety of other criteria.

[0232] It will be appreciated that one or more aspects of the game ofDraw Dice may be applied to the other embodiments of the game describedherein. In addition, one or more of the embodiments of the other gamesof the invention may be applied to the game of Draw Dice.

[0233] It will be appreciated that games in accordance with theinvention need not be the same as those described above. In one or moreembodiments, the game includes the step of removing from the set ofsymbols at least one of the symbols, thereby reducing the possiblenumber of combinations achievable thereafter by the player. Preferably,as the number of combinations which the player may achieve are reduced,the payout for achieving a winning combination increases. In theembodiments described above, the symbols or indicia are or include thesides or faces of dice. As target numbers are played, those number orindicia are removed from play. Of course, such a game may utilize otherindicia. For example, such aspects of the game may be applied to a“slot-type” machine which includes reels displaying symbols such ascherries, 7s, bells and the like. As rounds, hands or the like of playare completed, the symbols may be removed randomly or in accordance withwinnings combinations received by the player.

[0234] In one or more embodiments, features such as jackpots and bonusesmay be omitted. On the other hand, any combination of jackpots orbonuses as described herein may be applied to such a game or any of thegames herein.

[0235] In particular, a number of other alternate embodiments oralternate arrangements to the games other than as described above arecontemplated, and it will be appreciated that one or more of thefeatures described herein, whether or not described with a particulargame, may be applied to another. By way of example, a player may bepermitted to “hold” the simulated dice in the game of Z Sixty Six aswell as in the games of Check and Z Hot Dice. In addition, thereplacement symbols utilized in the games of Check and Z Sixty Six may,as in the case of Z Hot Dice, comprise symbols which either prevent aplayer from obtaining what appears to be a unique or winning combinationof replacement symbols, or may comprise a combination of symbols whichpermits a player to receive a winning combination of replacementsymbols.

[0236] In any of the embodiments, the replacement symbols may compriseno symbol at all, but comprise a blank or an indicia which otherwisewill not contribute to a predetermined winning combination. A variety ofcriteria may be applied to the games of the invention for determiningwhen a player has qualified or completed a round or category. Forexample, as described above, a player may be required to receive atleast 3 of a Kind to start play. In one or more embodiments, a playermay be required to play until they achieve at least a 3 of a Kind beforeany score is attributed to a particular category (i.e. not just thefirst). For example, after completing a first target number if on thenext two spins the player achieves at most a pair, the player may berequired to place an additional wager and utilize two more spins in anattempt to gain at least 3 of a Kind. In other embodiments, such asdescribed above, the player may receive a zero score if they do notreceive a winning combination on each set of spins. For example, aftercompleting a first target number or category, if on the next two spins aplayer receives only a pair of the same indicia, the score for thatcategory may be credited as zero, and then the player forced to move tothe next target number or category.

[0237] In one or more embodiments of the invention, a player may bedeclared a winner for receiving other combinations of symbols/events.For example, a player may be paid a special award or winning orreceiving at least 4 of a Kind of each target number. For example, inthe embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, an additional column 1202 may beprovided which indicates the amount of a bonus the player may receivefor obtaining a 3 of a Kind, 4 of a Kind or the like of each of thetarget numbers in the other columns. Such a bonus may be utilized inaddition to a “per-column” bonus as described above in the game of ZJackpot Dice or the jackpot as described herein.

[0238] In one or more embodiments of the invention, may as describedabove with respect to the game of Check, not include the step ofremoving one or more of the symbols as game progresses. Instead, theplayer may continue play, attempting to achieve winning combinations,jackpots, bonuses (or other of the features/elements) using the same setof symbols as play progresses.

[0239] In an alternative embodiment, the games of Check, Z Sixty Six, ZHot Dice, Z Jackpot Dice or Draw Dice or other game variations describedherein may be played over the Internet or other wired/wirelesscommunications network/system among a random collection of players atdiverse locations, forming a virtual wide area network of such competingplayers.

[0240] In alternative embodiments, numerous other wagering games,including but not limited to Poker Dice, and Aces in the Pot may beconfigured for play and display on the display 115, and played over alocal area computer network 401 or wide area computer network 501 ofcomputer-controlled slot machines 101.

[0241] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention,there is a method of playing a game and a system for presenting a gameincluding multiple players. Several arrangements of machines 101 in anetwork configuration for use in presenting such a multi-player game areillustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0242] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the process of gameplay of games played by more than one player is linked or commonlycontrolled. In one embodiment, a common controller controls the orgoverns the play of the multiple games. As one example, the commoncontroller may comprise a server 303 such as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0243] In one embodiment, the controller provides control information totwo or more computer-controlled gaming machines (such as machines 101 inFIG. 3). The control information may comprise a control signaltransmitted over a network (or other communication link) connecting thecontroller and the gaming machines, such as dedicated lines 311 asillustrated in FIG. 3.

[0244] In one or more embodiments, based on the control information, atleast one or more events associated with or regarding the play of thegames by the one or more players is dictated. In one embodiment, the oneor more events comprise a game start, game stop or individual game playsteps. In one or more embodiments, the aspect of these one or moreevents which is dictated comprises the timing of the event. The dictatedtiming may comprise a precise time or a time window or window by whichan event must occur, as detailed below.

[0245] A preferred embodiment of the invention as applied to the game ofZ Hot Dice will be described with reference to FIG. 11. In oneembodiment, each of the players who wish to participate in the gameprovide credits. Preferably, the common controller generates a signalwhich defines the start of the game, as in step 1122. In one embodiment,the controller sends a signal representing information to each gamingmachine regarding how soon the game will begin. This information maycomprise a visible timer, time clock, graph or other indicator which isdisplayed to the player of each gaming machine regarding the time atwhich the game will begin. For example, the controller may sendinformation which is continuously updated regarding the time until thegame is to begin. In one or more embodiments, each player wishing toparticipate in the game must have their credits provided before the gamestarts.

[0246] In one embodiment, at the start of the game the controller sendsa signal to each gaming device polling that device for informationregarding credits placed. If the gaming device sends back a signalindicating that credits have been placed, then the controller may send asignal to the gaming device permitting further input to the player andindicating to the player that they are permitted to play the game. Ifthe gaming device sends back a signal indicating that credits have notbeen placed, then the controller may send a signal to the gaming devicepreventing the gaming device from accepting input from a player untilthe completion of the pending game. The signal may also cause the gamingdevice to present information to the player that the gaming device ispresently not usable.

[0247] Once the game starts, the controller sends a control signal toeach gaming machine instructing the player to place their bet, as instep 1124. In one or more embodiments, the controller is arranged togenerate and send information regarding a period of time during whichthe player is permitted to take action. For example, the controller maysend clock or timer data, as described below, which indicates to aplayer how long, or how much longer, they have to take the appropriateaction.

[0248] Once the time period has ended, only players who placed bets areallowed to continue. Next, the controller is either arranged to causethe dice to spin (as in step 1126) or allow the player to effectuate thespin. The controller next sends a signal regarding a time during whicheach player must make their section of held dice and the indicatedtarget, as in steps 1128 and 1130. When this time period expires, thecontroller either causes the respin or provides a period of time duringwhich each player may respin.

[0249] The win totals are then posted and the controller may dictate aperiod of time during which a player may leave the game or continue withthe game by placing an additional bet (as in steps 1140, 1142 and 1144.

[0250] In one or more embodiments of the invention, the multiple playersplay against one another in an attempt to win a prize. In such anembodiment, the outcome of each player's game may be compared to theoutcome of all other players' games for determining the winner of themulti-player event. For example, in the example of Z Hot Dice, eachplayer may attempt to obtain the highest total score (see element 1039in FIG. 10). The player who receives the highest total score for aparticular game may be awarded a jackpot. Other criteria may be utilizedfor determining one or more winners of the multi-player game, such aslowest score or the highest three scores. In a preferred embodiment, aplayer is awarded winnings based on the outcome of their game,regardless of whether their result qualified them for winnings whencompared to all other players.

[0251] In one embodiment other prizes may be awarded based on othercriteria. For example, the player(s) who receives the highest scoreduring a particular round (i.e. a pair of spins in an attempt to fill asingle category) may be awarded a prize, such as money or bonus pointstowards their total score.

[0252] As one aspect of the invention, the order or sequence of the playof the game by a plurality of players is generally synchronized orotherwise controlled. In the embodiment just described, the timing ofeach step of the game as played by the players is controlled from a timeperspective. It will be appreciated that only the play of the gamebroadly need be controlled from a time perspective. For example, thecontroller may define a window during which all players are entitled toa play an entire instance of the game.

[0253] As indicated, in one or more embodiments, the controller controlsthe time or time periods for certain activities to occur, such as aplayer input. One or more embodiments of the invention include a methodand system for providing time information to a player. In an embodimentwhere a player is permitted a time period during which an activity mustoccur in order for the player to proceed or for the player'sact/selection to occur, time period information may be displayed. Thetime period information may comprise numeric time information, graphicalinformation or other forms of information recognizable by a player. Forexample, the information may comprise a pie-type graph with remainingtime indicated as one portion of the graph illustrated in one color andexpired time indicated as a portion of the graph in another color.

[0254] In one or more embodiments, audible or visible alarms or alertsmay be provided to a player. For example, an area of the display mayflash and indicate to a player that the player only has a short periodof time remaining (such as 1 minute, 15 seconds or the like) to takeaction.

[0255] In one or more embodiments, when the player takes action, thetime indicator may be removed or other information displayed to theplayer indicating that the player's action/selection has been accepted.In one or more embodiments, certain actions by a player maybe rescindedand a new action/selection permitted. For example, a player may elect torescind particular held dice and hold different dice, so long as suchaction occurs during the particular time period or by the timeindicated.

[0256] In one or more embodiments, a method of game play is disclosed inwhich one or more aspects of game play must occur within a particulartime period or before a certain time. If one or more of the acts orinputs are not provided within the required time, the player may beprevented from continuing further and completing the game.

[0257] Selections by a player, game state information and similarinformation is preferably forwarded from each gaming device or machineto the controller. In the event a player does not take the necessaryaction within the required time, then the controller may be adapted tosend a signal to the gaming machine to cause the gaming machine to notaccept input from the player for proceeding in game play. This samesignal may cause the display of information to the player that theplayer did not act in sufficient time and that the player is notpermitted to continue playing.

[0258] In one or more embodiments, a player's bet may be refunded if theplayer does not take action within the required time. For example, if aplayer places a bet but does not then spin the reels within the requiredtime, the player's bet may be credited back or refunded. Preferably, theplayer's bet is not refunded if the player fails to provide input afterone or more of the steps which define the outcome of the game occurs.For example, a player may not be entitled to a refund of their bet ifafter a spin of the dice the player does not hold one or more dice, assuch may allow the player to take advantage of the casino/house byceasing to act except where a favorable combination of dice are receivedon the first spin.

[0259] In one or more embodiments of the invention, the multiple gamingmachines which are used to present the games to the multiple players maybe located adjacent to one another or located remote from one another.For example, a plurality of gaming machines associated with a controllermay be located in a particular room or rooms of a casino. On the otherhand, the gaming machines may be associated with a local or wide areanetwork allowing the gaming machines to be located remote from oneanother and/or the controller. For example, one or more of the gamingmachines may be located in a first casino and other of the gamingmachines located in an entirely different casino.

[0260] In one or more embodiments, the controller need not be entirelycomputer. As one aspect of the invention, a human “caller” may beinvolved in the control of the multi-player game. The caller may provideinformation to players, such as instructions to take particular actions(e.g. “place bets,” “spin,” “hold dice”). The caller may also providetime information and generate or cause the generation of a controlsignal event. For example, the caller may cause the initiation of a timeperiod via a computer or other device associated with the controller orproviding input directly to the controller. The caller may provide aninput to the controller causing the controller to start a period of timerunning or set a time by which an event is to occur. In thisarrangement, the caller may provide gaps of time between events. Forexample, the caller may announce a two minute period of time duringwhich players are to engage in their first spin. The caller may thenallow a minute or two to lapse before starting a two minute time periodduring which the players are required to make dice hold selections.

[0261] As one aspect of the invention, the caller may be provided withinformation regarding player activities, such as the total number ofplayers and the number of players having made and/or not made aselection or engaged in the require activity. This information may beused by the caller to prompt players to take action or permit anextension of the time period for taking action.

[0262] A caller may be utilized even when the gaming machines arelocated remotely from one another. In one embodiment, the image of thecaller may be transmitted to each player, such as by a separatecommunication channel and one or more displays which are visible toplayers of the gaming machines, or even by picture-in-picture display ofthe information to the player directly at the gaming machine. In one ormore other embodiments, a caller may be utilized even though the calleris not present or visible to the player. For example, a caller maybeused to controller the game play, such as starting and stopping timeperiods, which time periods are only indicated to a player.

[0263] The arrangement of the system including the one or more devicesfor implementing a method of multi-player game play in accordance withthe invention may vary. As indicated, in one embodiment, a plurality ofgaming machines or devices are associated with at least one controllervia one or more communication pathways. In one embodiment, each gamingdevice may be provided with its own gaming controller, such as includinga random number generator for generating game outcomes. The maincontroller may provide control information to each gaming machine, andeach gaming machine may be arranged to generate (within the control ofthe main controller) the game information specific to that gamingmachine, such as the outcome of a particular spin.

[0264] In another embodiment, all or substantially all of the game playinformation may be generated remotely from the gaming machine. Forexample, the controller including a random number generator forgenerating a plurality of game outcomes for the differing gamingmachines. This game play information may then be transmitted to eachparticular gaming machine.

[0265] The game which is played by multiple players may comprise a widevariety of games other than the game of Z Hot Dice as described above.For example, any of the games herein may be implemented for multi-playerplay. Other games which are presently known may also be configured forplay in accordance with the method of the invention, such as the game ofvideo poker.

[0266] In one or more embodiments of the invention, informationregarding each player's own game play, including prior game play, andothers' game play may be presented. In one embodiment, informationregarding a player's previous game play, such as previous resulting dicecombinations and awarded points may be displayed. Such information maybe useful to the player in assessing how to proceed with a present gameor round of a game. In one embodiment, information regarding otherplayers' game results may be displayed to a player. For example, in oneembodiment, at the end of each round of the game of Z Hot Dice, theplayer or players having receiving the highest points for the last roundand players having the highest total points for rounds may be displayedto other players. In this manner, a player may compare their totalpoints to those of other players for determining where they stand in anattempt to win the game against the other players.

[0267] In one or more embodiments, the multiple players may play againstthe house, such as a computer generated game result. In one suchembodiment as implemented to the game of Z Hot Dice, the controller mayplay a game and generate results of spins, fill categories and achievepoint totals associated with those categories and total points. In oneembodiment, prizes or awards may be provided to a player who obtains agreater total of points than the house. The size of the prize awardedmay depend on the number of players who are successful in beating thehouse. In this embodiment, the house's dice hands and the house pointtotals may be displayed to all players for their observation.

[0268] The multi-player game of the invention has many unique aspectsand advantages. First, a multi-player game is provided. As is known,current gaming devices are arranged to be played by single playersagainst the house, lending to a very solitary form of play. Inaccordance with the invention, there is provided a method of presentinga game on a gaming device which is associated with many other players. Aplayer of the gaming device feels attached or associated with theseother players, even though they may be located remote from one another.Of course, in one or more embodiments, a plurality of gaming devices maybe located adjacent one another, whereby players located in closeproximity to one another all participate in the same game, lending tosubstantial comradery and interaction.

[0269] In accordance with the invention there is provided a multi-playergame where each player's luck and/or skill in playing an event of thegame is outcome determinative as to the overall game. In one embodiment,each player is in competition with the others, attempting to gain ahighest score or other result which entitles them to be declared awinner of the game. In another embodiment, each player is in competitionwith the house, attempting to beat the house and be declared a winner.Regardless, a player's decisions, such as which dice to hold, dictate inpart the outcome of the game for the player.

[0270] As used herein, the term “computer-controlled slot machine”denotes a computer controlled machine which facilitates wagering, whichgenerally requires the input of money in order to be operated, and whichoutputs money in response to the achievement of winning wageringresults. It will be appreciated that one or more aspects of the machine,including the interface or what is referred to herein as the touchsensitive display maybe electrical, mechanical and/or electromechanicalin nature. For example, while the buttons may comprise touch-sensitiveareas of a display, they may comprise electromechanical buttons whichare activated by mechanical movement (such as depression) by a player.In addition, the simulated dice may, instead of comprising solelycomputer generated images, actually comprise dice or dice faces mountedon a rotating reel and arranged to stop in controlled positions. Thesimulated dice or other symbols may be provided in a variety of othermanners, such as by laser light generation. The dice or other symbolsare referred to in certain instances as “simulated,” but could actuallycomprise faces of actual physical dice. The displays and display areasmay comprise CRT type displays, LCD or LED displays or any other meansfor displaying information now known or later developed.

[0271] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the generationand display of images in the form of the video simulated dice. In otherembodiments, other images are generated and displayed in the course ofgame play. For example, in one embodiment, the images generated anddisplayed are in the form of different colors. In another embodiment,graphical representations of different types of fruit are generated anddisplayed. In yet another embodiment, roman numerals are utilized. Thegeneration and subsequent display of any image in a set of at least twodisplay areas in the course of game play is within the scope of thepresent invention.

[0272] It will be appreciated that various features of the presentinvention may be applied to existing games or games later developed. Forexample, the feature of permitting a player to “pause” a game and thencontinue the game at one or one of several gaming machines may beapplied to present or future games. For example, the pause feature maybe applied to video poker games or the like. Likewise, the feature ofhaving bonuses associated with more than one event and/or cumulativebonuses may be applied to present or future games. For example, atypical slot machine may be configured to include particular winningcombinations which, when received by a player, entitle the player to afirst bonus. Additional bonuses may be won by receiving othercombinations, and a total bonus may be awarded for receiving yet anotherspecial combination.

[0273] Another feature which may be applied to the games of theinvention involves the duplication of displayed dice or symbols after aspin into additional “hands.” For example, after a first spin, a playermay elect to hold a target number which is displayed three times (i.e. a3 of a Kind). These same symbols may then be displayed in one or moreadditional rows or hands. The player may then be permitted to spinagain, in an attempt to achieve a winning combination in any or all ofthe hands or rows. In the example given, either 2 or 3 additionalsymbols (depending on whether each row had a maximum of 5 or 6 symbols)would be displayed randomly to fill each row. The combination of thenewly displayed symbols and the three originally held symbols would thenbe evaluated to determine if the player had won. The player may beawarded a payout for each winning row, or only for rows for which theplayer placed a wager. Alternatively, the player might be permitted toretain the highest winning combination from the several rows fordetermining the payout to be awarded in the column for that targetnumber.

[0274] In one or more embodiments of the invention, such as illustratedin FIG. 6, a gaming machine in accordance with the invention may includea random number generator. The random number generator is adapted toproduce random numbers which represent the outcome of the rolls of thedice or other symbols. For example, the numbers 1 2 4 3 5 5 may berandomly generated representing the outcome of a roll of six dice. Thesenumbers may correspond to the side of the die bearing the symbols 1 2 43 5 5.

[0275] In another embodiment of the invention, permutations of rolloutcomes are stored in a memory. One of the permutations is selected inorder to determine the outcome of a roll. In one embodiment, theselection is random. In one embodiment, particular permutations mayberemoved depending on the status of the game. For example, if a playerhas played the target number 2, then all permutations containing thenumber 2 may be removed from selection. In one embodiment, thepermutations may be associated with registers or memory locations.Selections of outcomes may then be made from memory locations. Forexample, permutations of outcomes without 2's may be located in onememory location, and outcomes without 3's may be located in anothermemory location.

[0276] Another embodiment of a game in accordance with the inventionwill be described with reference where applicable to FIG. 17. This gameis referred to herein as the game of Zingo.

[0277]FIG. 17 illustrates a touch sensitive display 1715 forimplementing the game of Zingo. A first area 1716 of the display 1715 isarranged to display a set of symbols or indicia. In one embodiment, thesymbols comprise the sides of a dice. A second area 1718 of the display1715 is arranged to display one or more combinations of player symbols.The displayed symbols preferably comprise combinations of the symbolswhich may be displayed in the first area 1716. In one embodiment, thecombinations of player symbols are arranged into lines or rows 1720,each line or row having the same number of positions for display ofsymbols as maybe displayed in the first area. As illustrated, sixpositions are provided in the first area 1716 for displaying acombination of six symbols. Preferably, the second area 1718 is thusarranged to display rows of six symbols as well.

[0278] As described in more detail below, as one object of theinvention, a player attempts to match as many of the symbols in thesecond area 1718 with symbols which are displayed in the first area1716. The symbols displayed in the first area 1716 maybe referred to asthe game, house, post, called or other symbols, as such symbols form aset of symbols over which the player has no control but attempts utilizeto match their symbols in the second area 1718. As detailed below, inone embodiment, these symbols change during the course of a game. Thesymbols in the second area 1718 may be referred to as the player'ssymbols, main or other symbols. As detailed below, in one embodiment,these symbols remain the same during the course of a game.

[0279] As stated, the symbols which may be displayed in either areapreferably comprise each side or face of a dice. Thus, each position offirst area 1716 is capable of displaying each of the six sides of adice. In other embodiments of the invention, other symbols may bedisplayed. For example, as detailed above in conjunction with thedescription of other games herein, the symbols or indicia may comprisepictures of fruit, letters, numbers or representations of otherelements/items. The symbols may be distinguished by color (such as red,white and blue as described above) or in other manners. The total numberof different symbols which may be displayed at each position ispreferably at least two, and may be more or less than 6. In oneembodiment, the number of symbols which may be displayed at eachposition may vary from another position.

[0280] Preferably, the number of positions of symbols in each row orline 1720 of symbols displayed in the second area 1718 is the same asthe number of positions of symbols in the first area 1716. This numberof positions may comprise 6, but may also comprise less than six or morethan six. In a preferred embodiment, 6 positions are chosen when thesymbols to be displayed comprise combinations of the 6 sides of a dice.

[0281] In one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of combinationsof symbols are displayed in the second area 1718. In the embodimentillustrated, six rows 1720 of symbol combinations are displayed.Preferably, each row displays a different combination of symbols.

[0282] A method of playing a game will now be described with referenceto FIG. 17. In one embodiment, the game is arranged as a wager-type gamein which a player is required to “buy-in” to the game, such as byplacing a bet. When the game is presented on a display 1715, the displaymay be associated with a gaming machine including a wager-acceptingdevice, such as a coin or bill acceptor. As described below, the playerneed not provide payment in this form or at the time the game starts.For example, when playing a “paper” version of the game, the player maypurchase a game card on which player indicia are printed.

[0283] In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the methodthus includes the step of a player placing a wager or otherwiseestablishing entitlement to play the game. In a next step, a combinationof symbols is displayed in the first area 1716. In a preferredembodiment, the symbols which are displayed are selected randomly. Thesymbols displayed in the first area 1716 are compared to the symbolsdisplayed in the first row in the second area 1718. If any of thesymbols are the same, in one embodiment, a “match” is declared. In thepreferred embodiment, a match only occurs if the symbol which isdisplayed in the first area 1716 is the same as and in the same positionas the symbol displayed in the second area 1718.

[0284] In one embodiment, if a match results, then the symbol in the rowin the second area 1718 is highlighted or another indication is providedto the player of the match. In one embodiment, the indication of matchoccurs by a computer comparing the displayed symbols. In anotherembodiment, the player is required to provide input for a match, such asby pressing a “hold” button associated with the position or touching thearea of the display where the symbol is displayed.

[0285] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a player receives ascore associated with a match. In one embodiment, the score comprisespoints or another numerical value. In one embodiment, the pointscomprise the points of the matched dice. The player's score associatedwith a particular row is displayed on the display 1715.

[0286] In a preferred embodiment, a player has three opportunities tomatch the symbols displayed in a row of the second area 1718 withsymbols displayed in the first area 1716. Thus, in a next step, a new ornext set of symbols is displayed in the first area 1716. Each display ofa new set or combination of symbols in the first area 1716 may bereferred to as a “roll” or “spin.” After the second spin or roll, thesymbols displayed in the first area 1716 are compared to those displayedin the same row of the second area 1718, and matches are determined. Ina preferred embodiment, once a symbol in the row of the second area 1718has been matched, it does not need to be matched again during laterspins or rolls. A player attempts to match each of the symbols in therow with a symbol displayed in the first area 1716 at least once duringthe course of the three (or other number) of rolls. If new matchesresult from the second spin or roll, then the player's score is updated.A new (i.e. third) spin or roll is initiated. The resulting displayedsymbols are again compared.

[0287] In one embodiment, a round of play comprises the display of oneor more sets of symbols in the first area 1716 for comparison with thesymbols displayed in the second area 1718. In a preferred embodiment,during a round three sets of symbols displayed in the first area 1716are compared against symbols in the second area 1718. The player's totalfor the round may then be used to determine if the player is a winner ofthe game, such as for entitlement to an award.

[0288] In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 17, however,the game includes more than one round. In one embodiment, the number ofrounds is dependent upon the number of groupings of symbols in thesecond area 1718 to which symbols are compared from the first area 1716.In each round, the game continues in similar fashion to that describedabove until the player has completed play with respect to each row orcombination of symbols in the second area 1718. In the embodimentillustrated, as a result of the play of the first round, the playermatched the dice symbols 2, 6, 4, 5, 3 during one or more of the rollsor spins of the symbols in the first area 1716. This resulted in aplayer receiving 20 points: the sum of the faces of the dice. In thesecond round, the player matched the dice symbols 5, 2, 6 for a score of13.

[0289] In a preferred embodiment, the display 1715 is arranged todisplay a player's score for each row and, in one or more embodiments,any bonus received. In one embodiment, in similar fashion to the game ofDraw Dice previously described, a player may receive a bonus score formatching at least a specified minimum number of the symbols, or aspecified minimum number of symbols upon the first or by the second rollor spin. For example, a player may be awarded a 50 point bonus formatching five symbols upon the first spin, as illustrated in FIG. 17.

[0290] In a preferred embodiment, the display 1715 displays a totalscore comprising the sum of the score for each row and the bonus (ifany) for each row.

[0291] In one embodiment, a player is rewarded an award or declared awinner based upon the player's score. A player may be declared a winnerif the player's score is greater than a predetermined score. In anotherembodiment, the player may be declared a winner based upon the player'sscore as compared to the scores of other players or the house.

[0292] In one or more embodiments, the game is implemented as amulti-player game. In one embodiment, the players may play the game atthe same or different times, and one or more players may be awardedwinnings as the end of a predetermined time. Such an arrangement isdescribed above, wherein the players achieving the highest scores duringa predetermined period of time, such as a week, may be declared winners.In another embodiment, the game may be played by several playerssimultaneously, such as described above.

[0293] In the multi-player version of the game it is preferred that eachplayer have the opportunity to obtain the same highest score. On theother hand, it is preferred that the players not play the exact sameform of the game when playing the game simultaneously, since eachplayers game outcome would be the same. In an embodiment such asillustrated in FIG. 17, it is desired that each player play a game inwhich the symbols displayed in the second area have the same pointtotal, but comprise different combinations of symbols. In the embodimentillustrated where a matrix of 6 rows of 6 symbols (i.e. 36 symbols) ofsides of dice are displayed, the sum of the faces may comprise 126. Inthat event, there are over 1000 different combinations of symbols whichmay be displayed in the matrix, such that at least one thousand playersmay play the game at the same time using a unique combination ofsymbols. Of course, a greater or lesser number of combinations mayresult when a greater or lesser number of symbols is used.

[0294] The game in principal may be played in a variety of formats andincluding a variety of options. In one embodiment, the spun or rolledsymbols need not be displayed on the same display as the player'ssymbols. For example, the outcome of a roll or spin may be displayed onanother device or in another area, such as on a separate monitor orprojector. In one embodiment, the game may be implemented in a slotmachine type format including reels, where the reels display the symbolsand the reels rotate to represent each spin or roll. The spinning of thereels may be initiated remotely, and in a multi-player game format, asignal may be sent to each machine causing the reels to rotate and allstop in the same position.

[0295] In one embodiment, the player's symbols may be displayed in amanner other than by a touch-sensitive or other video type display. Forexample, the symbols may be associated with reels as well. At thebeginning of a game, the reels may all rotate and stop to display thematrix of indicia which comprise the symbols of the second area. Inanother embodiment, the symbols may be printed on cards or similarmembers. In such event, the outcome of the game may require manualconfirmation of the matches.

[0296] In one embodiment the player's symbols need not comprise a matrixof symbols. Instead, the symbols may be arranged in a variety offashions, such as an X or T or the like. In this embodiment, instead orin addition to providing a score for matched symbols, the goal may be toattempt to match each and every symbol of the configuration. The winnerof the game may be each or every player who matches all of the symbolsof the pattern.

[0297] The combinations of symbols may also be arranged in verticalcolumns. Not all of the symbols need to be displayed at the same time.For example, in one embodiment a first row of symbols may be displayedand the other five rows of symbols may remain blank until the successiverounds of the game progress.

[0298] In one embodiment, a player may be provided a bonus score oraward if the player receives a predetermined pattern of symbols from agroup of symbols. For example, while playing a game comprising a matrixof 36 symbols, a player may be provided a bonus score or award formatching the symbols forming an X through the matrix.

[0299] In one or more embodiments, bonuses or other events and awardsmay be provided, including one or more of the bonus events describedabove. For example, with reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG.17, a player may be provided a bonus score or award if the playermatches at least 4 symbols of each of the 6 rows. A player may beawarded a bonus score or award for matching every symbol.

[0300] In one embodiment, a player may be permitted to play one or morewild cards. The wildcards may be placed anywhere in the combination ofplayer symbols and constitutes an automatic match, regardless of whetherthe symbol is actually matched during play of the game. Preferably, theplayer must indicate the location of the wildcard(s) before play of thegame begins.

[0301] The game of the invention is particular suited to themulti-player game format described above where the timing of certainaspects or events of play is controlled. In this arrangement, allplayers are provided a set of player symbols. A single set of symbols isdisplayed to all players for comparison of a match.

[0302] In one embodiment of the invention, a match may be declared if asymbol displayed in the first area matches a symbol of a row in thesecond area, regardless of whether the matching symbols are displayed inthe same position. For example, referred to FIG. 17, if at the beginningof the game the first set of symbols were as displayed, the player wouldbe permitted a match for the display of the 2 in the first position ofthe first set of symbols with the 2 in the first row of the second setof symbols.

[0303] In another embodiment, a player may be permitted to declare amatch when any symbol which is displayed in the first area matches anysymbol displayed in the second area. In one embodiment, a player may usea displayed symbol in the first area only once. The game may comprisethe rolling or display of a predetermined number of sets of firstsymbols. The player attempts to match as may of the symbols in thesecond set as possible. In one embodiment, a player may attempt to matchevery symbol in the second set in order to win. In another embodiment,the player may be provided a score comprising the sum of the matchedsymbol values.

[0304] In the event the game comprises matching symbols regardless ofposition, the symbols which are displayed in the first area need not bearranged similar to those in the second area. For example, a singlesymbol, pair of symbols or the like may be displayed and used by theplayers in matching to the symbols in the player area.

[0305] In one embodiment, the score may comprise other than the sum ofthe dice value. For example, in the event symbols such as fruit areutilized, each symbol may have an associated value. The value for eachsymbol may remain the same or change based on criteria such as the rowin which the symbol is located.

[0306] It will be understood that the above described arrangements ofapparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative ofapplications of the principles of this invention and many otherembodiments and modifications may be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

I claim:
 1. A method of playing a game by two or more players, said gamehaving the possibility of different outcomes to each of said at leasttwo players, said game having a plurality of steps, one or more of whichdefine said outcomes, comprising: indicating to said two or more playersinformation regarding times by which each of said steps of said gamemust be completed by said two or more players; permitting each player ofsaid two or more players to continue playing said game if said steps arecompleted within said times; preventing any of said at least two or moreplayers having not completed a step within a defined time fromcontinuing to play said game; and determining a winner of said game bycomparison of the outcomes of games completed by any of said two or moreplayers.
 2. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein saidindicating step comprises displaying information regarding a time bywhich a step of said game must be completed by said two or more players.3. The method in accordance with claim 2 wherein said informationdefines a time period during which a step of said game must be completedby said two or more players.
 4. The method in accordance with claim 1including the steps of indicating a time by which each of said two ormore players must place a bet in order to continue playing said game. 5.The method in accordance with claim 4 including the step of indicating atime by which each of said two or more players having placed a bet mustprovide input to display indicia for play of said game.
 6. The method inaccordance with claim 1 wherein said outcomes of said game include pointtotals and said step of determining a winner of said game comprisescomparing point totals received by any of said two or more playerscompleting said game.
 7. The method in accordance with claim 6 includingthe step of declaring a player having the highest point total the winnerof said game.
 8. The method in accordance with claim 1 including thestep of presenting said game to each of said two or more player with agaming device.
 9. The method in accordance with claim 8 including thestep of associating each gaming device with a controller.
 10. The methodin accordance with claim 9 including at least one input device whereby acaller may cause the controller to generate a signal used to indicateone or more of said times.
 11. The method in accordance with claim 9wherein at least one of said players comprises a computer-generated playresult by said controller.
 12. A method of playing a game by two or moreplayers, said game having the possibility of different outcomes to saidat least two players, said game having at least two steps comprising:indicating information regarding a time by which a first step of saidgame must be completed by said two or more players; permitting eachplayer of said two or more players to continue playing said game if saidstep is completed by said time; preventing any of said at least two ormore players having not completed said step by said time from continuingto play said game; and indicating information regarding a time by whicha next step of said game must be completed by each player of said two ormore player permitted to continue playing said game.
 13. The method inaccordance with claim 12 wherein said steps of indicating compriseindicating a time period.
 14. The method in accordance with claim 12including the step of determining an outcome of said games played bysaid players by comparing results of each player's game outcome to theresult of other players' game outcomes.
 15. A system permitting two ormore players to play a game, said game having the possibility ofdifferent outcomes to each player comprising: at least two gamingdevices, said gaming devices adapted to present said game to at leastone player; at least one controller, said controller adapted to generatea control signal regarding a time by which a player must provide aninput to one of said at least two gaming devices; and a communicationlink between said at least one controller and each of said at least twogaming devices for transmitting said control signal from said at leastone controller to said at least two gaming devices and for transmittingan input signal from one or more of said at least two gaming devices tosaid at least one controller.
 16. The system in accordance with claim 15including at least one input device associated with said controller,said at least one input device adapted to provide a signal to said atleast one controller causing said controller to generate said controlsignal.
 17. A method of at least two players playing a game, said gamehaving the possibility of different outcomes to each of said at leasttwo players, comprising: providing at least two gaming devices adaptedto present said game to one or more of said players; establishing acommunication pathway between each of said at least two gaming devicesand a controller; generating a control signal with said controller;transmitting said control signal to said at least two gaming devices;indicating a time by which a player of each of said at least two gamingdevices must provide input thereto; accepting input from a player ofeach of said at least two gaming devices if said input is providedduring said indicated time; and transmitting a signal from said at leasttwo gaming devices regarding the status of player input to said gamingdevice.
 18. The method in accordance with claim 17 including the step oftransmitting a signal from said controller to each gaming device towhich player input was not provided within said indicated time, saidsignal preventing further play of said game by said player.
 19. Themethod in accordance with claim 17 including the step of transmittinggame play data from said controller to each gaming device whichtransmitted a signal indicating player input was received within saidindicated time.
 20. A method of playing a game comprising the steps of:placing a wager; displaying a first set of symbols comprising a main setof symbols; displaying a set of player symbols; determining if any ofsaid symbols in said first set of symbols match any of the symbolsdisplayed in said player set of symbols; displaying a second set ofsymbols comprising said main set of symbols; determining if any of saidsymbols in said second set of symbols match any of the symbols in saidplayer set of symbols.
 21. The method in accordance with claim 20including the step of displaying a plurality of rows of symbolscomprising said set of player symbols, determining if any of saidsymbols of said first set of symbols match any of said symbols in one orsaid rows of said player symbols and determining if any of said symbolsof said second set of symbols match any of said symbols said row ofplayer symbols.
 22. The method in accordance with claim 20 wherein saidsymbols in said first set of symbols and said player symbols arearranged into positions and set step of determining if said symbolsmatch comprise determining if a symbols in corresponding positions ofsaid first set of symbols and said set of player symbols are the same.23. The method in accordance with claim 20 including the step ofassigning a score for each matched symbol.
 24. The method in accordancewith claim 20 wherein said sets of symbols are displayed on a singledisplay.
 25. A method of playing a game comprising the steps of:displaying at least a first set of player symbols and a second set ofplayer symbols; displaying a first set of game symbols; determining ifone or more of said first set of game symbols matches one or more ofsaid first set of player symbols; displaying at least a second set ofgame symbols; determining if one or more of said second set of gamesymbols matches one or more of said first set of player symbols;displaying at least a third and a fourth set of game symbols; anddetermining if one or more of said third and fourth sets of game symbolsmatches one or more of said second set of player symbols.
 26. The methodin accordance with claim 25 wherein said first set of player symbols hassymbols in at least two positions and said first set of game symbols hassymbols in at least two positions and said determining step comprisesdetermining if symbols in corresponding positions of said first set ofplayer symbols and first set of game symbols match.
 27. The method inaccordance with claim 25 wherein said symbols comprise at least aportion of a dice.
 28. The method in accordance with claim 25 includingthe step of generating a score associated with said matched symbols.